How did Henry IV regain control in Germany after returning from Italy in 1097?

Upon returning to Germany from Italy in 1097, Henry IV was able to regain control by consolidating his authority as the political climate shifted; notably, sympathy for the papacy and church reform no longer precluded loyalty to the emperor.1

His path to stabilization was facilitated by the resolution of key conflicts: Welf V separated from Matilda of Tuscany in 1095, and in 1096, Welf IV was restored to his position as duke of Bavaria, which allowed Henry to return to Germany. With his position strengthened, the princes elected his second son, Henry V, as king in May 1098, effectively replacing his disloyal son Conrad.1

While Henry IV successfully consolidated his domestic authority, he struggled to achieve a complete peace with the church, as reconciliation with the papacy remained elusive throughout his later years.1