General

Compensation movements are quite normal - why do we have to worry about them?
The adaptability of the human organism is indeed highly impressive. When an area of the body is injured or not functioning optimally for whatever reason, the body finds a way to make up for the deficit. When an area of the body is injured or not functioning optimally for whatever reason, the body finds a way to compensate for that deficit. Survival (and therefore movement in general, quantity) is more important to the organism than perfect balance in the musculoskeletal system (highest quality of movement). Compensation patterns are therefore actually quite normal – except that they can lead to discomfort and reduced performance if they are extreme and/or persistent and are influenced by other factors. The aim is therefore to find out how many compensation patterns can be “allowed” so that athletes can still develop their full potential in their sport and maintain their health and well-being. It is therefore by no means a question of ensuring that the movement system functions “perfectly”, but rather of finding the right balance for each individual case.
What are "neuro-based" exercises?
Our brain constantly takes in information with all the relevant systems, interprets it and then decides on the output (e.g. performance, pain). With neuro-based exercises, it is important to find out what the brain evaluates as positive and not as a threat. Neuro-functional tests therefore form the basis for determining which exercises are necessary.
This depends on individual compensation patterns, which in turn depend on lifestyle, past injuries, trauma, daily exercise routine, mental state, etc.
Neuro-based exercises are a kind of “software” training, especially in the beginning, these are usually very easy exercises, as the body very quickly falls into an old compensation pattern if the intensity is too high.
If the brain absorbs and processes everything anyway, isn't classic training also "neuro-based"?

Training, just like any other stimulus in any other situation in everyday life and at work, is perceived by the brain, processed and implemented for further behavior. In this respect, everything we do is “neural”.

So what is the difference between classic training and neuro-based training? The main difference lies in the fact that the input stimuli that affect a person must be tested individually in order to actually obtain a statement as to whether the respective brain reacts positively or negatively. For example, it may be that classic exercises or behaviors in everyday life “don’t feel bad”, but are judged by the brain as unsafe and therefore limit performance or cause symptoms.

Neuro-based therefore refers to the fact that the content (e.g. training) must always be specifically adapted to the respective individual and their context.

What else is included in my training and movement philosophy apart from special neuro-based exercises?
The primary goal is initially to restore optimal communication (isolated control) of individual joints, which are then trained step by step in interaction with other joints until finally large movements of high quality are possible.
In order to initially achieve a high quality of movement, the neuro-based corrective exercises may be supplemented by manual loosening techniques, myofascial release methods, breathing exercises, eye exercises, scar techniques, balance exercises or other basic exercises.
However, my ultimate goal is always to achieve a wide range of freedom of movement through frequent, complex movements in everyday life or sport. Classical exercises from bodyweight and strength training, natural forms of movement and general movements at work or at home all come into play here.
What I don't do...

I am not a fan of standard solutions such as fitness training that looks the same for everyone. A neuro-based approach is always individual. I am not an advocate of treating tension or limitations with blanket exercises. Especially when it comes to tension, there is often the opinion that you have to loosen up the tense muscles (e.g. by stretching, fascia roll or massage). However, many tensions are relieved on their own if they are treated in conjunction with the rest of the musculoskeletal system. Tension is often only the result of an imbalance in movement behavior.

My understanding of therapy, training and help

I will do my best to help you help yourself!

My understanding of a client-therapist interaction is not that I solve your problems or “correct” your body, although some of the treatment methods suggest this. I see training/therapy as a joint development process in which I help you to get to know yourself better and to bring your mind into balance with your body. This can be a slow or fast process, depending on the individual case.

With this in mind, the following characteristics accelerate successful cooperation:

a positive attitude towards change
an active need for solutions
a willingness to make an effort for yourself in order to feel better and be able to move freely
I would like to encourage you to do something for yourself and your life and not to be dependent on me.

Training and therapy sessions

Is there a special target group for individual units?

Basically not, as the quality of movement can be examined and changed in every person, taking the nervous system into account. Communication and cooperation are important factors for success, which is why I recommend a minimum age of 6-7 years for children.

If you have an acute injury or acute pain, a medical assessment is required before you start an exercise program. In the case of serious injuries or illnesses, an outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation program may be preferable. You can supplement these with individual training or therapy sessions, but not replace them.

Here are some key client groups:

  • People who want to build a bridge between physiotherapy, osteopathy and training
  • Recreational and competitive athletes who want to mobilize their performance reserves
  • People with restrictions or pain in the musculoskeletal system who have not had sufficient success with conventional methods. Here in particular, it makes sense to consider a holistic and proactive approach (see also next question).
Are there typical areas of application or symptoms / injuries for which my approach makes sense?

As described above, there are a few exceptional situations in which medical clarification and/or rehabilitation measures should be the first priority.

In general, however, a neuro-based movement approach always promises progress, because a positive change in the movement “software” is possible at any time.

In sport, the range of applications is almost unlimited. In therapy, it is particularly useful for long-term complaints, such as typical signs of overuse, e.g:

  • Muscle imbalances and pain,
  • Back pain,
  • Sciatica,
  • Tendinitis/bursitis,
  • Rotator cuff problems,
  • Knee pain/injuries,
  • Runner’s knee,
  • Achilles tendon problems,
  • Plantar fasciitis,
  • IT band syndrome,
  • Foot misalignments and complaints,
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome,
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome,
  • Tennis and golfer’s elbow,
  • Tibial tuberosity syndrome and many more

Thanks to special testing and treatment protocols of the NKT concept, I am also able to treat some less common “specialties” using neuro-based exercises, such as

 

  • Muscular imbalances in the area of the head and facial muscles (neck complaints, eye dysfunctions, temporomandibular joint complaints / CMD, tension headaches, hyoid bone complaints / swallowing difficulties),
  • Pelvic floor pain and / or instability
  • Dysfunctional breathing patterns and diaphragmatic dysfunctions
  • Scar pain / scar therapy
  • Ligament pain
  • Human running pattern and rotational movements (e.g. in sports with a high rotational movement component)

In recent years, I have also built up a specialty in rehabilitation after concussions (concussion rehabilitation). Current symptoms often also stem from the consequences of a concussion that has not been optimally rehabilitated.

In which region are training and therapy sessions possible and where do they take place?

Primarily in and around Magdeburg. Please contact me for an individual arrangement.

What does a therapy/training session look like and how long does it usually last?
First, I take the time to record your movement history and your current situation. I then specifically analyze your movements, from simple joint movements to complex whole-body movements. I use neurological and functional tests to check your ability to move and the neuromuscular function of your musculoskeletal system. You will be actively involved in order to develop a feeling for how your body organizes movements. This process is a kind of “joint detective work”.
After we have found out together how your brain communicates with the rest of your movement system, I use manual loosening techniques as well as mobilization and activation exercises and I show you, through precise coaching, targeted exercises and movements that you can integrate into your everyday life or into the training process, naturally adapted to your abilities and needs.
The first session usually lasts approx. 2 hours, subsequent sessions usually 60-90 minutes.
What should I wear during a training / therapy session?
As a rule, comfortable everyday clothing or sportswear in which you feel comfortable and can move well (e.g. squats, forward bends, overhead grips) is sufficient. It is not usually necessary to undress completely. The feet should also be available barefoot.
How long does it usually take to notice changes?

Changes within the ability to move and body control can already be felt in the first session, as changes are always immediately apparent through the central nervous system. However, whether the changes in movement patterns are sustainable depends on what led to the performance restrictions / imbalances.

If it is a problem caused by temporary influences (e.g. recent injuries, current physical or emotional stress), then fewer training sessions are usually required.

When it comes to imbalances caused by permanent or older influences (e.g. poor postural habits, one-sided strain, past injuries/trauma, permanent emotional stress), changes take longer. This is also more dependent on how carefully and sustainably everyday life is changed (e.g. through corrective exercises, new postural habits, breathing and relaxation exercises, mental training…).

Can units be billed via health insurance companies?

Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to bill statutory health insurance companies for individual training/therapy services. With private health insurance, billing is partially possible. I recommend that you obtain information about possible billing conditions.

Is supervision possible between training / therapy sessions?

It is important to me to have a mutual exchange about homework and training progress, so you are welcome to contact me by phone so that I can help you. Help by e-mail with practice tips or a Skype consultation is also possible.