Physiotherapy, the FPZ concept

What is the FPZ physotherapy concept?

Back pain belongs to the kind of ailments that practically every one of us has to face at some point in our lives. These problems have a negative impact on our health, performance and quality of life.

Scientific studies by the German Research and Prevention Centre (FPZ) in Cologne concluded that the stabilizing musculature of the spine is the key to preventing and eliminating back discomfort. Under the auspices of the FPZ, a new program for therapy and training of the spine using computer analysis, the FPZ concept was developed in 1999 and 2000.

FPZ Concept, step by step

The FPZ concept is divided into 3 phases which are systematically applied one after the other:

  1. The analysis of the state of each muscle group of the spine (duration: 90 minutes)
  2. The muscular (re)construction program (24 training sessions of 1 hour)
  3. Training for future prevention (a regular 15-day session lasting 1 hour)

Based on the results of the analysis, the computer develops for each patient an individual training program specially designed for him. Periodic analyses document the progress made by the patient and allow continuous optimization of his training.

All training exercises are intensively controlled and conducted by one of our highly qualified experts, specially trained for these trainings. This unique concept of care guarantees maximum efficiency and safety with a minimum investment of time.

FPZ Concept, analysis

By means of a biomechanical functional analysis we can find with maximum precision the strong and weak points of the musculature that surrounds the spinal column of the patient. These analyses are possible thanks to the use of a highly sophisticated high-tech technology developed in Germany especially for the FPZ concept.

The analysis focuses primarily on precise measurements of the mobility of the lumbar, dorsal and cervical spine, as well as the isometric strength of all muscle groups relevant to each movement.

The data obtained from these measurements are compared, by means of a specially developed computer program, with the data of an ideal person without discomfort, equivalent to the same age and conditions of the patient.

In this way we can create in 90 minutes the muscular profile of your spine, something similar in practical terms to an electrocardiogram of your back. This allows for an objective and clear interpretation of the momentary functional state of your spine and a precise planning of the way forward.

This muscular profile is the one that will later dictate the extension, duration and frequency of the therapy program and will allow the individualization and specific adaptation of each therapeutic exercise. Thanks to this we can dose the therapy training as if it were a medicine, which implies.

FPZ concept, training

The main objective of training as therapy is the optimization of the stabilizing musculature of the spinal column, in addition to the suppression or reduction of any type of muscular decompensation.

Another beneficial effect achieved in training is joint stimulation, especially in the intervertebral discs of the spine, thanks to its mobilization and intermittent loading controlled by the computer system. This effect helps to stimulate the osteoarticular system and to recover the function of each vertebral unit without inflaming or overloading the discs (the main difference with other electrostimulation or similar methods).

One of the central parts of our long-term therapy training is the intensive activation of the patient’s spine.

A clear and balanced mix of training exercises, including strength exercises using highly sophisticated FPZ devices, stretching exercises and exercises to relax the lumbar, dorsal and cervical musculature, allow the patient a systematic approach to the objectives set by the system in training.

The therapeutic methods of the FPZ concept have been tested and proven during the 10 years needed to develop this training concept in over than 3000 patients.

The musculoskeletal re-construction program usually includes 24 training sessions that are completed in the first 12 weeks. The subsequent prevention program will require a minimum of sessions, depending on the patient’s motivation and the state achieved after the re-construction training. Each maintenance session will be 60 minutes long.

As additional training, a detailed and easy-to-understand gymnastics programs will be developed and will be delivered to the patient at the end of the treatment.

FPZ concept, the results

The participants in the FPZ concept will observe a significant improvement in their health status in a very varied way, regardless of their age and sex.

The strength and performance of the stabilising musculature of the spinal column increases by an average of 30 to 50 percent during the 3 months of therapy, and

the freedom of movement of the trunk increases in all axes of movement by an average of 7 to 8 degrees. 91 percent of all muscle imbalances are completely eliminated in 6 months.

The existing back and neck discomfort improves in 93.5 percent of all patients, and as an average, for every second patient, all discomfort disappears completely.

The quality of life increases an average of 22 percent, the number of visits to the doctor due to back pain as well as the need for therapeutic gymnastics are halved and the consumption of medications are reduced by more than 50 percent.

Quality Controls

The FPZ concept is only offered by specialized and certified training centres . A strict quality control system guarantees a high level of quality of the services offered.