Practice for physiotherapy, craniosacral therapy, visceral therapy, and biodynamic cardiovascular therapy.

About me

Andrea Ike

Physiotherapist
Born in 1969

1992Physiotherapy diploma at AKH Vienna
www.akhwien.at
2010Bed Ecd (Bachelor, Early Childhood Development)
www.unisa.ac.za
2012 - datoCore shamanism according to Michael Harner
www.shamanism.eu
2016Diploma in Visionary Craniosacral Work according to Hugh Milne
www.milneinstitute.com
2021ATMA Touch® Practitioner, emotional and bodywork according to Atma Pöschl for professionals in helping and healing professions – Institute Atma
www.institut-atma.at
2021Master course in visceral therapy
www.viszerale-therapie.at
2025Biodynamic cardiovascular therapy according to Michael Shea
www.sheaheart.de
2025Cuddle therapy according to Dr. Elisa E. Meyer
www.cuddlers.net
2026Hypnosis Practitioner according to Gereon Jörn
www.potenzialwecker.de
1992St. Pölten Regional Hospital, Outpatient Clinic
1993Paracelsus Health Resort Salzburg
1993 - 1994Nonntal retirement home, Salzburg
1994Freelance work in a group practice, Gaisbergstr. 1, Salzburg
1994 - 2010Freelancer in Johannesburg, South Africa
2010 - 2012Freelance work in:
Golling Group Practice
Rehabilitation Center for Obesity and Diabetes, Hallein
Kurhaus St. Josef, Bad Dürrnberg
2013 - 2017Freelancer at Physioteam Red Point, Klessheimer Allee, Salzburg
2017 - datoOwn physiotherapy practice at Graf Zeppelin Platz 18/66, Salzburg

Practice

Memberships

Services

Biodynamic cardiovascular therapy (BCVT) is a gentle, hands-on therapy that supports the body’s natural regulation of the cardiovascular system. Through mindful touch and the perception of internal rhythms, the body’s self-regulation is encouraged.

Procedure

  • The treatment takes place in a calm environment, with the patient in a lying position.
  • Duration: approx. 45 minutes.
  • Gentle touch supports relaxation and body awareness.

Goal

  • Harmonization of blood flow
  • Stress reduction and deep relaxation

  • Strengthening of self-regulation and inner stability

Suitable for

  • Symptoms of stress and exhaustion
  • Nervous restlessness
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Chronic inflammation or a weakened immune system
  • Support following stressful events

Note
This method does not replace medical treatment for heart conditions and is applied complementarily, taking existing diagnoses into account.

Manual therapy to improve the mobility and function of the internal organs and their interaction with the musculoskeletal system.

Procedure

  • Manual mobilization of the internal organs
  • Treatment of tension in the organ and musculoskeletal system.

  • Integration into comprehensive physiotherapy treatment concepts.

Goal

  • Improvement of organ mobility
  • Reduction of organ-related tension

  • Treatment of functional musculoskeletal complaints

Suitable for

  • Back and joint complaints
  • Digestive or bladder problems

  • Scars after surgery

  • Postural imbalances and scoliosis

  • Stress- or emotion-related tension

Note
Complements physiotherapeutic and medical treatment.

Holistic manual therapy for the regulation of the craniosacral system on a physical, emotional, and energetic level

Procedure

  • Gentle touch applied to the skull, spine, and sacrum.
  • Perception and regulation of the craniosacral rhythm.
  • Calm, relaxing treatment environment.

Goal

  • Relaxation of the nervous system
  • Promotion of the body’s self-healing abilities

  • Improvement of overall well-being

Suitable for

  • Stress and overload
  • Chronic pain

  • Functional complaints

  • Emotional strain

Note
Further information at www.milneinstitute.com and www.upledger.at

Natural therapeutic approach for the treatment, rehabilitation, and prevention of functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system

Procedure

  • Passive, therapeutically guided movements.
  • Active exercises for strengthening and mobilization.

  • Individualized therapy planning.

Goal

  • Pain relief
  • Restoration of mobility

  • Functional rehabilitation and prevention

Suitable for

  • Orthopedic conditions
  • Neurological conditions

  • After injuries or surgeries

  • Chronic functional disorders

Note
Alternative or supplement to medication and surgical therapy.

Heat therapy using infrared A, B, and C for deep heat treatment of tissue and musculature

Procedure

  • Local application of infrared heat.
  • Superficial and deep tissue warming.

  • Treatment duration depending on the indication.

Goal

  • Pain relief
  • Muscle relaxation

  • Improvement of circulation and metabolism

  • Enhancement of oxygen supply

Suitable for

  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Circulatory disorders

  • Lower back complaints and sprains

  • Chronic inflammation (not in an acute flare)

  • Allergies, neurological conditions, skin disorders

Note
For acute inflammation, prior therapeutic clarification is required.

Specialized massage technique to promote lymphatic drainage and reduce tissue congestion

Procedure

  • Gentle, rhythmic manual techniques.
  • Treatment along the lymphatic pathways.

  • Can be combined with compression or movement therapy.

Goal

  • Reduction of swelling
  • Promotion of lymphatic drainage

  • Support of the immune system

Suitable for

  • Lymphedema
  • Postoperative swelling

  • Venous disorders

  • Swelling after injuries

Note
According to medical prescription or therapeutic indication.

Natural heat therapy using peat, which delivers deep and long-lasting warmth to the tissue

Procedure

  • Application of warmed peat packs to the affected area.
  • Longer application time for deep heat.

  • Can be combined with movement therapy.

Goal

  • Muscle relaxation
  • Pain relief

  • Stimulation of metabolic processes

  • Relief of the tissue

Suitable for

  • Chronic pain
  • Rheumatic complaints

  • Muscle tension

  • Degenerative joint diseases

Note
Not for acute inflammation or certain cardiovascular diseases without consultation.

Therapy using electrical impulses to influence muscles, nerves, and tissue

Procedure

  • Application of electrodes to the skin.
  • Targeted electrical stimulation.

  • Adjustment of parameters to the indication.

Goal

  • Pain relief
  • Muscle activation

  • Improvement of joint function

  • Promotion of blood circulation and tissue trophicity

Suitable for

  • Muscle function disorders
  • Pain

  • Neurological conditions

  • Rehabilitation after injuries

Note
Indication-specific application after physiotherapeutic diagnosis.

Spiritual accompanying method based on core shamanism according to Michael Harner for emotional and personal clarification

Procedure

  • Shamanic Extraction
  • Shamanic Divination

  • Shamanic Soul Retrieval

Goal

  • Personal and emotional clarification
  • Spiritual orientation

  • Support during life crises

Suitable for

  • People with a spiritual interest
  • Personal development processes

  • Support in crisis situations

Note
No medical or psychotherapeutic treatment.
Further information: www.shamanism.org

Quotes

Patient Information

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is the targeted treatment of impaired physiological functions of the human musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapy uses the body’s natural physiological adaptation mechanisms to achieve therapeutic effects

How does physiotherapy work?

As a natural therapeutic approach, physiotherapy makes use of

 

  • passive movement guided by external forces, e.g. the physiotherapist, and
  • active, independently performed movement by the individual to maintain health or to restore and rehabilitate functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapy is therefore an alternative or a meaningful complement to medication-based and surgical treatment

 

The three-year training program to become a physiotherapist is regulated by law, and the professional title is protected

 

Physiotherapy always works through a holistic approach. Based on the medical diagnosis, therapy goals are defined to maintain, restore, and improve functional disorders and the overall performance of the organism

 

Physiotherapeutic Assessment
Every physiotherapeutic treatment begins with a detailed physiotherapeutic assessment by the physiotherapist, where all structures that may be related to a problem are thoroughly tested and evaluated. This forms the basis for creating a precise treatment plan. A reassessment during and before each therapy session allows the treatment to be individually adjusted and modified accordingly.

The aim of physiotherapy

The overarching goal is for patients of all ages to acquire the skills they need to cope with everyday life, work, and leisure activities in their personal circumstances through therapy.

When is physiotherapy used?

Areas of application by medical specialties

 

Physiotherapy in trauma surgery and orthopedics (post-treatment)

 

  • Fractures
  • Corrective surgeries (osteotomy)
  • Joint replacement with artificial joints (endoprostheses)
  • Joint surgery (e.g. arthroscopy)
  • Ligament, tendon, and muscle tears
  • Inflammatory joint diseases (e.g. rheumatism)
  • Joint degeneration (osteoarthritis)
  • and much more

 

Physiotherapy in the field of neurology

 

  • Children with cerebral impairments
  • Young and school-aged children with postural weaknesses and spinal curvatures (scoliosis)

 

Physiotherapy for diseases of the internal organs

 

  • Respiratory system diseases (e.g., asthma, cystic fibrosis, following thoracic surgery)
  • Cardiovascular and vascular diseases (e.g., arterial and venous disorders, lymphedema)
  • Diseases of the kidneys, urinary, and reproductive organs (e.g., urinary incontinence)

 

Physiotherapy in the field of gynecology

 

  • Pregnancy exercises
  • Incontinence issues

What are the costs for physiotherapy?

I work for you as an elective physical therapist. This means that I will send you an invoice at the end of your treatment.

 

Once you have paid these costs, you can apply to your health insurance provider for reimbursement. You will receive a list of the currently valid insurance rates during your first treatment.

What do I need for the refund?

  • Fee note
  • Payment receipt
  • Fully completed and signed prescription form (original)
  • The prescription approved by the health insurance fund
  • Bank account details

 

Appointments that are not canceled at least 24 hours in advance will be billed PRIVATELY!

What is craniosacral therapy?

Upledger CranioSacral Therapy® is a holistic and system-oriented method. It treats the whole person—physically, energetically, and emotionally—and promotes relaxation of the craniosacral system.

 

The craniosacral system comprises

 

  • Skull (cranium), spine, and sacrum
  • Spinal cord and meninges
  • Spinal cord and brain fluid (cerebrospinal fluid)
  • All structures involved in cerebrospinal fluid production and resorption

 

It surrounds the central nervous system, protecting and nourishing it. The craniosacral system interacts with all structures and regulatory cycles in the body. These include the nervous and endocrine systems, the vascular and lymphatic systems, respiration, and the musculoskeletal system.

How is craniosacral therapy performed?

On the clothed body with mindful touch. Careful contact creates an environment in which the person being treated can feel perceived in their entirety.

 

This safe and secure atmosphere facilitates relaxation. Throughout the process, emotions or memories may surface, which are treated with respect and integrated in the best possible way.

The goal of craniosacral therapy

Relaxation of all body tissues, especially the craniosacral system. Craniosacral therapy supports self-healing, health, and well-being at every age.

 

It plays an important role in healthcare and has a supportive influence in the following areas, for example

 

  • Neck and back pain, joint and muscle pain
  • Headaches, migraines
  • Respiratory diseases
  • Recurrent infections and autoimmune diseases
  • Orthodontic problems
  • Overwork, exhaustion, burnout, psychosomatic illnesses
  • Desire to have children and pregnancy support
  • Breastfeeding problems, colic, crying babies
  • Concentration and learning difficulties, developmental delays

What is visceral therapy?

We live as long as our internal organs function. We can move as long as our bones, ligaments, and muscles function well.

 

Visceral therapy is the integration of the musculoskeletal system with the organ system. Our organs are attached to the musculoskeletal system, which gives them support and their place in the body. They therefore have a strong connection to the spine, pelvis, ribs, shoulder girdle, bones, muscles, and fascia.

 

Organ dysfunction can occur for many reasons: infections, surgery, poor nutrition, poor posture, scoliosis, or emotional stress. The consequence of this is that the affected organs build up tension, which is then transferred to the musculoskeletal system. For example, constipation or cystitis can lead to discomfort in the hip joint or lumbar spine (pain, disc problems, spondylolisthesis, etc.).

What do I need to bring with me to my first treatment?

For your first treatment, please bring a prescription from your family doctor or specialist, as well as any doctor’s letters, surgical reports, findings, and X-ray images, if available, and a large bath towel or sheet for the treatment table.

What is Biodynamic Cardiovascular Therapy (BCVT)?

Biodynamic Cardiovascular Therapy (BCVT) according to Michael J. Shea is a very gentle, manual method that applies the principles of biodynamic craniosacral therapy to the heart, blood vessels, and bodily fluids. It combines light hand placement, awareness of slow bodily rhythms (e.g., “primary respiration”) with mindfulness and compassionate presence.

 

Goals

  • Supports the self-regulation of the cardiovascular system, particularly the vascular endothelial layer and cellular metabolism.
  • Promotion of inner security, relaxation, and embodied wholeness.
  • Additional relief for symptoms related to chronic stress, dysregulation, or pre-/perinatal influences.
  • Promoting compassion and a secure therapeutic relationship as part of the healing process.

 

Treatment procedure

  • Duration: usually approx. 45–60 minutes (variable).
  • Setting: Patient lies fully clothed on the treatment table; therapist works with very light, focused hand pressure over the heart region, major arteries, and relevant areas of the body.
  • Approach: calm, mindful presence of the therapist; perception and reinforcement of slow rhythms (primary respiration, stillness, mid-tide, CRI); gentle palpation cues; no forceful manipulations.
  • Series of sessions: usually several sessions are recommended, depending on the goal and progress.

 

What patients may feel or expect

  • Short term: deep relaxation, reduction of tension or anxiety, altered perception of the body or heart; occasional emotional reactions (relief, sadness).
  • Medium to long term: possible improvement in autonomic regulation, better stress management, increased well-being; subjective stabilization of symptoms related to dysregulation.
  • Not to be expected: specific cure of acute or advanced organic heart disease through BCVT alone.

 

Safety and contraindications

  • BCVT is very gentle and is generally considered low risk.
  • In cases of known severe cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, recent surgical wounds, or other serious medical conditions, the treating physician should be consulted prior to treatment.
  • Please inform me about heart surgery, stents, pacemakers, medications, and relevant pre-existing conditions.

 

Preparation and notes after the session

  • Beforehand: comfortable, light clothing; a light meal; have a list of current medications and diagnoses ready.
  • Afterwards: relax, drink plenty of fluids; note any observations or changes (useful for follow-up treatments).

 

Evidence Note
BCVT is based on biodynamic/manual therapy theory and clinical experience; high-quality randomized studies on its specific efficacy in cardiovascular diseases are currently limited. The method is to be classified as complementary and supportive, not as a substitute for medically necessary cardiological diagnostics or treatment.

What is cuddle therapy?

Means:
Caressing, holding, kneading, breathing together, hugging/pressing

 

It helps with::
lack of physical contact
against high blood pressure
immune deficiency
anxiety
depression
stress
losses, transitions
to overcome separations

 

The benefits are:
production of oxytocin
reduction of cortisol
new awareness for your body
blissful state of being
Thought loops dissolve
Self-confidence is strengthened
Joy of life increases

 

Rules:
There is a set of rules that need to be agreed on and signed by either party prior to the session.

these are:

cuddling takes place dressed
no kissing
intimate areas are off limits
no sexual touch or actions
no private contact to the cuddler

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a form of communication, a trance state with maximum concentration on one point. I have no power over you and cannot solve your problems, but I can show you the way to solve them, and you must walk that path yourself.

 

Use for:

  • health issues
  • anxiety/insecurity
  • losing weight
  • become a non-smoker
  • limiting beliefs
  • grief counseling
  • dealing with forgiveness
  • sleep problems
  • personality issues
  • coming to terms with the past
  • recover memories
  • business topics (e.g., success)
  • Intuition building

Reading List

Contact

The 5th heart chamber

Physiotherapy / CranioSacral Therapy
Andrea Ike
Graf Zeppelin Platz 18/2/66
5020 Salzburg
Phone: +43 680 3338663

  • Barrier-free, elevator available
  • Parking spaces directly in front of the building
  • Bus connections: 9, 28 (Otto von Lilienthalstrasse)
  • Treatment room available exclusively for your use
  • Treatment time 45 to 60 minutes

Appointments

Appointments exclusively by telephone arrangement *

 

* Thank you for your understanding that I am unable to answer the phone during treatment sessions. In this case, please leave a message along with your phone number, and I will return your call as soon as possible.

 

Please cancel scheduled appointments at least 24 hours in advance, as it is otherwise not possible to reassign the time slot and the appointment will have to be billed privately.