Healing Modalities
Naturopathic medicine is a healthcare system that utilizes holistic treatment modalities based both on traditional therapeutic methods as well as modern medical science to stimulate the innate healing mechanisms of the body. Such modalities are explained in further detail below.
Utilized traditionally for thousands of years in cultures across the world, medicinal plants and their derivatives are effectively implemented in the treatment of acute and chronic conditions and in supporting overall wellness. Many conventional pharmaceutical drugs are derived from plants. Naturopathic physicians are trained to safely use botanical medicines both in combination with other botanicals as well as in conjunction with prescription drugs.
Perhaps the single most important facet of health, nutrition is the foundation of optimum vitality. How and with what we choose to nourish ourselves directly relates to the way that we feel. Nutritional needs are assessed based on family and medical history, lifestyle factors, and laboratory testing. Specific therapeutic diets, vitamins, minerals, or other support may be prescribed to assist in achieving favorable nutritional status.
Simply defined, hydrotherapy is the application of water in any form to assist in the treatment of disease or health maintenance. The water form, temperature, duration, and frequency of treatment are all patient-dependent. Forms of hydrotherapy may include ice, heat, alternation of cold and hot, neutral baths, compresses, steam, infrared saunas, and more.
Living a balanced life has profound impacts on wellness, happiness, and longevity. Many factors are involved in maintaining this balance, including nutrition, hydration, regular movement or exercise, proper sleep and rest, cleanly home and work environments, avoidance of detrimental substances, and stress management. All of these influences may be specifically tailored to the individual to ensure achievability and therefore success in leading a life of improved wellness.
Stress, poor thought patterns, or negative attitudes can contribute both to disease processes as well as prevent healing from disease. Improving these mental-emotional dynamics can have powerful effects on our physical state of health. Mind-body and stress management techniques can improve coping mechanisms, control the unfavorable physiological effects of chronic stress, enhance mood, and lead to a greater sense of wellbeing. Some such practices include breathing techniques, meditation, counseling, body movement, self-expression, and affirmations.
Physical medicine encompasses an array of manual methods employed in naturopathic clinical practice. These may include soft tissue techniques, joint mobilization, manipulation techniques, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy, to name a few. Once the specific needs of the individual are assessed by the physician, the appropriate modalities will be employed to correct imbalances in structural integrity, improve mobility, and enhance neurological, circulatory, or biomechanical functions.
Educational topics:
Common colds & immune support
Seasonal allergies
Digestive disturbances & food sensitivities
Cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure
Diabetes and blood sugar imbalances
Autoimmune disease
Anxiety
Weight control and nutritional imbalances
