What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to healthcare that we wholeheartedly embrace. In this practice, we recognize and respect the inherent healing power of the body. Our focus is not solely on alleviating symptoms but rather on identifying and addressing the root cause of health concerns.
As naturopathic doctors, we view each individual as a unique and interconnected system of mind, body, and spirit. We take into account various factors such as lifestyle, diet, environment, and emotional well-being to gain a holistic understanding of our patients. By uncovering the underlying causes of illness, we aim to promote long-term health and empower individuals to take an active role in their well-being.
Our treatments involve a blend of natural therapies, including nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments. At times, we may act more like a coach, or a teacher, or a nutritionist, more than a clinician. The overarching goal is to support the body's natural healing mechanisms and restore balance. Through personalized care and a commitment to addressing the root causes, naturopathic medicine strives to not only alleviate current health issues but also prevent their recurrence.
In essence, naturopathic medicine is a partnership between the practitioner and the patient, working together to achieve optimal health by understanding and addressing the fundamental factors contributing to well-being.
The Therapeutic Order of Naturopathic Medicine
The therapeutic order is a simple approach that naturopathic physicians use in our approach toward resolving the patients symptoms to address the underlying cause while using the least invasive / toxic therapy necessary to bring about the desired outcome.
The 6 Principles of Naturopathic Medicine
1.
First Do No Harm
Core to all medical practice is the desire to help the human form and condition. Typically approach care by utilizing the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies.
2.
The Healing
Power of Nature
Recognize the value of the natural world in assisting the healing process. Prioritizing substances that originate in nature, while also incorporating a healthy environment as foundational to human health. Naturopathic doctors recognize and harness the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself in order to guide it to wellness and total health.
3.
Identify and Treat
the Causes
There is a time and place for symptom suppression. However, most will benefit from identifying the underlying cause of illness and removing the obstacles to bring healing.
4.
Doctor as Teacher
Naturopathic doctors elevate patient health literacy. Our role is to teach patients to have a better understanding about their condition(s) and what it takes to be and stay well.
Through education and a trust-based relationship, patients better empowered to take the steps they need to achieve and maintain health.
5.
Treat the
Whole Person
Naturopathic doctors understand the interconnectedness of the human body (body, mind, soul), our environment and our lifestyle as it pertains to total health. It is only through this whole-person-based approach that any restoration of balance and health can occur.
6.
Prevention
Naturopathic medicine affirms that it is better to prevent illness and suffering whenever possible. Through our comprehensive practice, combing all six principles in order to identify potential areas of imbalance and teach patients how to stay well.