Dorn-Breuss method
The Dorn-Breuss method combines two techniques: the Dorn method and Breuss massage. In the Dorn method, vertebrae and joints are treated with gentle thumb pressure while you move your arms or legs yourself. Breuss massage is a gentle, relaxing massage along the spine, usually with St John's wort oil.
- therapists
- 2
- session length
- 45–60 min
Therascout does not diagnose. Have new, severe or persistent complaints checked by a doctor first. In an emergency: 144
Origin and approach
The Dorn method was developed in the 1970s by Dieter Dorn from the Allgäu region of Germany; the massage was devised by the Austrian Rudolf Breuss. The idea is that shifted vertebrae and unequal leg lengths cause complaints and can be gently corrected. This idea has not been shown scientifically.
What a session is like
Length: 45–60 min- At the start, you talk about your complaints; your leg length, pelvis and spine are often checked by touch.
- During the Dorn treatment you stand, sit or lie and move your arms or legs while gentle pressure is applied to joints and vertebrae.
- The Breuss massage usually follows, lying on your front, and is meant to be relaxing.
- You often get simple exercises to do yourself at home.
Dorn-Breuss method: what is it used for?
- Back pain: the most common reason for treatment; this use is based on experience, and studies are lacking.
- Posture problems and a tilted pelvis: here too, the method relies on tradition and experience.
- Relaxation: many people particularly enjoy the gentle Breuss massage.
How well is the effect supported?
Complaints for which this method is commonly used, sorted by the state of research. The rating shows how well the effect is supported, not whether it will help you.
We do not have a rating by complaint for this method yet.
Therapists: Dorn-Breuss method
Costs and health insurance
- Basic insurance
- usually not.
- Supplementary insurance
- often 50–80% with EMR- or ASCA-recognised therapists, often up to an annual maximum.
- Your insurer
- Each profile shows which insurers recognise the therapist.
- Practice prices
- See prices in each practice profile.
Good to know
- Often it is just a few sessions, around 2 to 5, along with exercises at home.
- The method is not suitable with osteoporosis, an acute slipped disc, after spinal surgery, or with inflammation or tumours.
- Have back pain with numbness, weakness in the legs or fever, or after an accident, checked by a doctor first; the method does not replace medical treatment.
Training and recognition in Switzerland
The Dorn-Breuss method is usually learned in short courses; there is no state-regulated training. Some supplementary insurers contribute if the therapist is registered with EMR or ASCA for this method; ask beforehand.