Florian Hockenholz
Pain therapy
The training combines evidence-based pain therapy, functional training therapy, and medical yoga into a holistic therapeutic approach. For over 25 years, I have been passing on my knowledge to colleagues in the field of therapy at universities and in training and continuing education courses.
Pain therapy
Training
Experience and topicality:
Specialized training in pain management for over 26 years, with content updated annually
Flexible learning concept:
Combination of e-learning and face-to-face seminars (blended learning).
Work on theory flexibly from home; focus on practice in practical courses.
You can also complete 100% of the training entirely online.
clearly structured & practical:
Activity First: Promoting movement and activity among patients as a central goal.
Evidence-based: Orientation towards current scientific evidence and proven best-practice approaches.
Community: Connect with other members in our new members-only area
12 courses covering the full scope of pain management
3 options - complete flexibility
Have the detailed invitations to tender, contents and dates sent to you directly by email here
Summer Special:
Get your team up to speed:
👤 Individual: €1,480
👤👤 2 people: €1,980
👤👤👤 3 people: €2,980
👤👤👤👤 4 people: €3,480
Pain Management Training – starting at €1,480.00 in affordable monthly installments.
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100% Digital Self-Study Course
Your daily practice schedule is packed. That’s why this continuing education program adapts to your life—not the other way around. With our fully online e-learning format, you can access a wealth of knowledge on modern pain management right on your screen. Learn at your own pace, without travel expenses or time away from your practice. Get started right away with the first e-learning module.
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100% digital - Zoom in-person training
Your daily practice schedule is packed. That’s why we’re bringing the classroom to you. With our 100% digital live format via Zoom, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge of modern pain management and engage in direct discussions right on your screen. Ask questions live, discuss real patient cases, and learn without any travel costs. Get started right away with the first e-learning module.
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In-person training sessions held on-site
Your daily practice schedule is packed. When you leave your practice, every minute counts. In our in-person training, we put theory into direct practice. Real hands-on training, immediate feedback, and 100% focus on-site. Learn in a group with other motivated therapists. Get started right away with the first e-learning module and prepare for the in-person courses.
Training: Activity First Pain Therapy – Evidence-based therapy that makes a difference.
No more passive, “couch-bound” treatment. No more masking symptoms with medication. Modern pain science calls for a new approach—and we provide a ready-to-use concept for your practice.
Does this sound familiar? Patients come to you for manual therapy or osteopathy for months on end, tie up your schedule, experience brief relief, but the chronic pain keeps coming back. Why? Because passive interventions cannot permanently reprogram the pain memory in the brain.
Activity First pain therapy radically breaks with outdated treatment paradigms. It is the seamless integration of the latest neurobiological findings with highly effective, functional movement exercises.
Here, you’ll learn how to help patients in pain—from those with neurological conditions to elite athletes—transition from passive recipients to active participants in their own healing process.
Your foundation: 100% evidence. 0% mysticism.
We don’t just pass patients along. We use movement as our primary, scientifically proven treatment. In this training program, you’ll learn a clear, clinical model that allows you to systematically understand the causes of chronic conditions and treat them in a targeted manner.
Clinical Pain Medicine & Education: Understand the neurobiology of pain, the mechanisms of central sensitization, and how to alleviate fear of movement through professional patient education (Pain Neuroscience Education).
Neurofunctional Movement Therapy: Utilize the most biomechanically precise yoga postures—completely free of spiritual baggage—as a highly effective, active workout.
Neural Regulation & Neuroathletics: Learn how to instantly and measurably release the pain brake in your patients’ brains through the autonomic nervous system, breath regulation, and neuro-centered stimuli.
The 3-Step Hybrid Model: Maximum flexibility for your success
This continuing education program is perfectly tailored to your busy daily practice schedule. Thanks to our innovative hybrid system, you’ll enjoy maximum flexibility while receiving intensive hands-on training:
Option = Self-paced course: Learn the hard scientific facts, pain physiology, and theory entirely at your own pace and on your own schedule using our modern platform.
Option: Self-Study Course + Live Zoom Review Session: Discuss complex, treatment-resistant case studies in a live, interactive setting and sharpen your clinical insight.
Option: Self-study course + intensive in-person phase: Get the most out of it right away. You’ll prepare online and then learn all the practical skills live on-site with Florian Hockenholz.
Who will find this training to be a game-changer?
Physical therapists, occupational therapists, and massage therapists who are frustrated by stagnant treatment outcomes and are looking for a clear, guideline-based system that delivers real self-efficacy.
Alternative practitioners and osteopaths who want to elevate their expertise in pain management to the highest medical standards and clearly distinguish themselves in the market.
Modern medical professionals who are looking for a functional, active exercise therapy as an alternative to injections and surgery.
Become an expert in modern pain medicine
Stop just treating symptoms. Learn a system that speaks the language of the nervous system and gives your patients back control over their bodies. Scientifically proven, highly practical, and ready to use with patients the very next day.
Contents of the training
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Contents: Pain physiology, physiology of the limbic system, learning pain, phantom pain, nocebo & placebo, pain medication & therapy, pain medication & addiction, pain and society, social pain, differentiation of nociception - pain & suffering, pain & anxiety, basics of anxiety disorders and panic attacks, Assessment & standardized questionnaires, pain & depression, sleep - sleep disorders & pain, evidence-based pain therapy and 'voodoo therapy', chronification factors, headache, migraine, dizziness part 1, communication in conflicts, multimodal pain therapy in practice - rehabilitation & clinic, ...
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Contents: Pain & connective tissue physiology, anatomy of trains, active vs. passive pain therapy, theory of gentle fascia therapy, theory and practice of myo-fascial therapy based on Typaldos, heel spurs and achillodynia, tendon disorders, intervertebral disc disorders, peripheral compression syndromes, arthrosis & rheumatism, introduction to yoga therapy of the Anatomy Trains, theory & practice of diaphragm therapy (pelvic floor & thoracic diaphragm), assessment & standardized questionnaires ...
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Contents: Physiology of the autonomic nervous system, visceral differential diagnostics, flag system (red flags and others), spinal therapy procedures, chronic pain syndromes of the spine, neurogenic pain, ankylosing spondylitis, CRPS of the upper and lower extremities, theory of yoga therapy of the autonomic nervous system, non-specific digestive disorders; irritable bowel syndrome, functional heart complaints, modern sympathetic nervous system therapy, assessment & standardized questionnaires ...
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Contents: Complex pain therapy, graded activity, graded exposure, pacing strategy, findings & documentation procedures according to ICF, assessment & standardized questionnaires, headache, migraine, dizziness part 2, fibromyalgia & myo-fascial pain syndromes, tumor pain, uro-gynecological pain syndromes & endometriosis, trigeminal neuralgia, resteless legs syndrome, CFS, long covid, ..., content and organizational preparation for the practice courses ...
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Contents:
Building on e-learning modules 1-4, this practical course provides you with in-depth knowledge of the relevant examination and treatment techniques.
You will learn, among other things:the practical application in fascial therapy,
the examination and treatment of segmental and peripheral compression syndromes,
the diagnosis and regulation of the vegetative-visceral system,
as well as many other manual therapy and body-oriented techniques.
As you have already mastered the theoretical basics, the focus of this course is 100% on practical implementation - using concrete case studies from everyday therapeutic practice.
In this part of the course we focus more on the 'hands-on' treatment.
You can also complete this part of the course as e-learning if you would like to complete the entire training digitally. -
Contents:
Building on e-learning modules 1–4, this practical course allows you to deepen your understanding of relevant examination and treatment techniques in a targeted manner. This course consists of two parts: the Musculoskeletal System & Fascia, and the Autonomic and Peripheral Nervous System.
Among other things, you will learn:the practical application in fascial therapy,
the examination and treatment of segmental and peripheral compression syndromes,
the diagnosis and regulation of the vegetative-visceral system,
as well as many other manual therapy and body-oriented techniques.
As you have already mastered the theoretical basics, the focus of this course is 100% on practical implementation - using concrete case studies from everyday therapeutic practice.
In this part of the course we focus more on 'hands-on' treatment. We use many active therapy techniques such as fascia yoga, yoga and the nervous system, Pilates and modern training and exercise therapy.
You can also complete this part of the course as e-learning if you want to complete the entire training digitally. -
Active, functional exercise concepts for pain therapy in neurological, oncological, and geriatric care. Focus on everyday movement, coordination, and stress exercises, taking posture and statics into account.
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In this e-learning course, you can expect exciting insights into the world of psychosomatics.
Together we will explore the background and treatment strategies for depression, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, addictive behavior and other psychosomatic clinical pictures.
You will develop a sound understanding of active therapy approaches and will be specifically prepared for the next practical course, in which we will put the methods we have learned into practice together.A special focus is placed on the powerful techniques of mindfulness, breathwork and meditation - tools that will enrich both your therapeutic work and your personal development in the long term.
Look forward to an intensive, practical and inspiring learning experience!
You can also complete this part of the course as e-learning if you would like to complete the entire training digitally. -
Building on the content of the previous course, we will now actively devote ourselves to practical work in the field of psychosomatics.
The focus is on effective, active therapy concepts that can be used flexibly in both individual treatment and group work.
In addition, you will learn about basic regulating measures from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - valuable impulses for holistic therapy work.Look forward to a course that combines theory and practice in a lively way and allows you to grow noticeably in your therapeutic competence!
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In the final course module, we bring together everything you have worked on over the past few months.
We weave the individual modules into a practical, clearly structured overall concept that you can use confidently and confidently in everyday therapeutic practice.This course is more than just a degree - it is the moment when knowledge becomes real competence.
After the course, you have the opportunity to take your final exam online and officially complete your training.
A new chapter begins: as a pain therapist, with sound knowledge, practical experience and a strong therapeutic attitude.
Special pain therapy training on La Gomera
☀️ 2026 ☀️
You’ll start with the four introductory e-learning courses —flexible, available anytime, and ready to begin right away (get started today!).
The three practical modules will take place on La Gomera from October 1 to October 16, 2026.
When winter is already setting in in Germany, you can expect sun, warmth and a fantastic backdrop on La Gomera.
We spend most of our training days directly on the beach - with practice, exchange and exercise. During the breaks, we go for a swim in the sea and in the evening we enjoy Spanish cuisine... and maybe a glass of wine or two. 🍷
✨ Good to know: Course fees, flight, ferry, accommodation and meals are tax-deductible.
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You fly to Tenerife South - there are several daily connections from almost all cities in the DACH region.
From the airport, the "Mesabus" will take you directly to the harbor.
There you can board the ferry to La Gomera - and enjoy the first sunshine and a cool drink on deck.After the crossing, a second bus will be waiting to take you on an impressive route through the mountains directly to Valle Gran Rey - the place where our course takes place.
Vacation feeling included. 🌴
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In Valle Gran Rey you will find numerous charming accommodations via Airbnb - the closer to the beach, the better your start to the day.
If you want a little more comfort, we recommend the Hotel Gran Rey or the Hotel Playa La Calera - both are located right by the sea and offer a relaxed atmosphere with hotel service. -
The course is guaranteed to take place - even if there are only two of us on the beach.
Classes run daily from 09:00 to 13:00.
Afterwards you have time for yourself - to reflect, continue learning or simply enjoy:
Join me on a boat trip to see whales and dolphins, or let me show you the most beautiful places on my island home.We meet up again for dinner at the latest in one of the many cozy restaurants - to chat, laugh and enjoy.
🧭 General questions about training
I've never taken an online course before—can I try it out?
Yes, you can take a free introductory course here. Just check out how our online courses work.
Here you can take the free online course .
Who is this pain therapy training program suitable for?
This training program is designed for physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other medical and therapeutic professionals who wish to deepen their expertise in evidence-based pain management.
Can I take part if I am not (yet) working in the practice?
Yes - the training is also suitable for those starting or returning to work. E-learning gives you the opportunity to start flexibly.
How long does the entire training program last?
The entire training program is designed to last approximately 12–18 months—but can be tailored to individual needs.
Do I have to follow the course sequence?
The course sequence is flexible,
Where can I view the detailed course content, and where can I find the current dates for the hands-on courses?
You can find all the dates HERE.
Can I talk to you on the phone? I would like to discuss some questions in person.
Yes - that's no problem at all. Just click on the link here and choose an appointment from my telephone calendar. I will then call you at the agreed time.
💻 Questions about the learning format (e-learning & attendance)
How does the blended learning concept work?
You learn the theory online in short, structured modules - supplemented by live Zoom workshops. The practical part is taught in compact face-to-face courses (or live online seminars). Each of our online chapters lasts a maximum of 20 minutes and can therefore be perfectly integrated into everyday life.
Do I have to travel to attend the in-person modules?
No—you also have the option of completing the practical modules online (live via Zoom). Alternatively, you can choose an in-person location that works for you.
How much time should I set aside each week?
That depends on the individual. For the e-learning modules, we recommend approx. 2-5 hours per week, divided into lots of small 20-minute sections or compactly in 2-3 hours at a time – you set your own pace.
📜 C ertification & graduation
Is there a certificate?
Yes. After completing the modules, you will receive a certificate for the basic or advanced training. If you pass the exam, you will also receive the title "Specialist Pain Therapist" or "Pain Physiotherapist".
Is the training recognized?
The content is based on current evidence-based guidelines and the requirements of statutory health insurance physicians (e.g. in relation to multimodal pain therapy). Recognition may vary depending on the region.
💰 Costs & booking
Can I sign up for individual modules?
No. You must always sign up for the entire course. If you pay via KLARNA, you can complete the course starting at €49.00 per month.
🌱 Contents & development
What distinguishes this training from other pain training courses?
The focus is on an active, relationship-oriented approach ("Activity First"), combined with a modern view of pain development, bodywork and support for patients at eye level.
What role does yoga play in the training?
We often use yoga for the activity-based approach to pain therapy training. It is important to note that these modules can be carried out by any therapist without yoga knowledge and also by seriously ill patients without any problems. You do not need any special yoga knowledge for this training.