Dr. Franz Dengler Clinic

The story of this exceptional rehabilitation tradition began in 1890, when the first private sanatorium in Baden-Baden opened its doors on Bernhardstrasse. Commissioned by Dutch merchant Max le Maistre, the “Baden-Baden Sanatorium” was designed to offer spa guests not only high-level medical care, but also the comfort and elegance of a hotel environment. Medical leadership was provided by Dr. Anton Frey and Dr. William Henry Gilbert.

Today, this legacy continues through a modern orthopedic rehabilitation concept focused on recovery, mobility, and long-term independence.

Orthopedic Rehabilitation – Indications & Focus

The orthopedic department specializes in inpatient postoperative rehabilitation, supporting patients after:

Hip, knee, or shoulder joint replacement (endoprosthetics)

Fractures and traumatic injuries

Spine surgeries and neurosurgical interventions

Orthopedic operations requiring structured follow-up care

In addition, the clinic treats a wide range of non-surgical musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Rheumatic diseases

Degenerative joint and spinal disorders

Osteoporosis

Chronic pain syndromes

“There are no problems, only solutions.”
— Dr. Norbert Ursel

Conservative Orthopedic Therapy

A major strength of the clinic lies in its comprehensive conservative approach, combining:

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy

Ultrasound therapy

Therapeutic bathing and exercise programs

Medically supervised rehabilitation plans

The goal is always to:

Reduce or eliminate pain

Improve mobility and endurance

Strengthen muscles

Enhance coordination and posture

Increase walking distance and daily function

Support independent living and prevent long-term care dependency

Inpatient & Outpatient Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation programs can be offered:

Inpatient (patients stay at the clinic)

Outpatient (patients return home each evening)

Standard rehabilitation typically lasts three weeks, but may be adjusted depending on individual needs and medical recommendations.

Conditions Commonly Treated

Musculoskeletal disorders of all kinds

Osteoporosis

Chronic pain conditions

Degenerative and inflammatory joint changes

Postoperative recovery after joint replacement

Rehabilitation after accidents and injuries

Follow-up after spinal and neurosurgical procedures

Diagnostic Services

The clinic offers advanced diagnostics, including:

Laboratory tests, ECG, EMG

Joint ultrasound

Functional X-ray imaging

Bone density measurement (osteoporosis screening)

3D/4D posture and spinal analysis (radiation-free)

Computer-assisted balance testing

Chiropractic diagnostics

EMG muscle function analysis

Individualized Therapy Programs
Physiotherapy

Personalized sessions based on a detailed assessment of movement limitations and functional needs, with the goal of restoring independence.

Movement Therapy

Medically prescribed and supervised exercise programs to improve fitness, coordination, and psychosocial well-being.

Physical Therapy

Therapeutic use of heat, cold, water, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and manual techniques.

Occupational Therapy

Support in regaining daily living skills at home, work, and leisure, enhancing social participation.

Pain Therapy

Interdisciplinary pain management strategies, especially for chronic pain patients.

Psychological Support

Holistic rehabilitation includes emotional and psychological care, recognizing the connection between body and mind.

Nutritional Therapy

Dieticians provide counseling, seminars, and practical support to encourage long-term healthy eating habits.

Medically-Vocational Rehabilitation (MBOR)
Returning to Work with Confidence

The clinic also offers a specialized MBOR program, designed to help patients regain professional resilience after illness or injury.

MBOR combines medical rehabilitation with vocational reintegration, focusing not only on symptom relief but also on returning safely to work.

Program Levels

Level A: Basic vocational rehabilitation services (for all DRV patients)

Level B: Core MBOR measures for patients with special occupational challenges

MBOR Includes

Individual diagnostics of health and work ability

Counseling and group-based vocational training

Workplace-oriented physical exercises

Transition support back into employment or new career paths

A multidisciplinary team of physicians, therapists, psychologists, and social workers works closely together, with optional involvement of employers or occupational health services (with patient consent).

A Holistic Path to Recovery

With more than a century of rehabilitation tradition and a modern, patient-centered approach, the clinic provides comprehensive orthopedic care aimed at restoring mobility, independence, and quality of life—both in everyday living and professional life.