About Naturopathic Medicine
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
What is a Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.)?
Why would I choose to visit a Naturopathic Doctor?
What could I expect from a visit with an N.D.?
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine (also referred to as “naturopathy”) is a comprehensive system of primary health care that employs natural treatment methods to stimulate and support the body’s innate system for self-healing.
It is appropriate for the management of a wide range of health conditions, and is appropriate for all ages.
Naturopathic medicine concentrates on the whole person, not simply a set of symptoms. Treatment always begins with the “least force” intervention, as appropriate to the patient and his or her condition. Often this may mean simple diet and lifestyle changes to start; with more significant conditions this may also include specific nutrient support with vitamins, minerals and/ or herbs.
Due to advances in surgery and drugs, Naturopathic Medicine almost disappeared in the 20th century. However it is enjoying a re-emergence to suit a shift in consumer demands in the 21st century. As consumers become more interested in preventative medicine, as well as searching for more effective and safer alternatives to many conventional treatments, natural and alternative therapies are again gaining well-deserved attention.
Currently Naturopathic Doctors are licensed in 15 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territories of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Scope of practice varies state-to-state; all require graduation from an accredited 4-year, graduate level program.
Naturopathic Doctors are trained as general care practitioners and, in the locations outlined above, are licensed to practice accordingly. Conditions treated can range from ear infections, to allergies, to your annual physical exam.
What is a Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.)?
Naturopathic doctors are general care doctors, specializing in natural and alternative therapies. ND’s address the underlying cause of disease through effective, individualized natural therapies that integrate the healing powers of body, mind and spirit.
Naturopathic doctors are unique in providing diagnosis and treatment that bridges both conventional and natural medicine perspectives; they integrate scientific research with the healing powers of nature.
The goal of a naturopathic doctor is to employ therapies that support and promote the body's natural healing process, leading to the highest state of wellness.
As professional leaders and pioneers in science-based natural medicine, naturopathic doctors support broad inclusion, collaboration and equal access in the health care system at all levels.
To be licensed as a “Naturopathic Doctor” in the state of California, individuals must have graduated from a 4-year, accredited, graduate-level Naturopathic Medical School. Licensing also requires successful completion of national, professional board examinations. In addition to standard medical curriculum, the naturopathic doctor completes training in clinical nutrition, homeopathy, botanical medicine, and counseling.
Why would I choose to visit a Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.)?
ND’s are licensed as general care practitioners and can provide a broad range of services. Services can include annual physical exams, to ear infections, to support for chronic allergies. Naturopathic medicine can benefit all people looking to take a more natural approach to their healthcare.
Common conditions treated successfully with Naturopathic Medicine include, but are not limited to:
- Allergies/ eczema
- Overall immune support
- Headaches/ Migraines
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Insomnia/ Sleep Disturbances
- Acne/ Skin Problems
- Weight loss
What could I expect from a visit with an N.D.?
First office appointments with a Naturopathic Doctor are quire different than a conventional office. You will generally spend a full hour with your doctor. This will include discussing the complete history of your complaint, as well as reviewing your lifestyle habits and family history.
Treatments can be as simple as diet or lifestyle changes. Certain testing may be requested such as screening blood work, or other diagnostic testing or lab services.
Follow-up appointments vary depending upon the complexity of the problem being addressed, and the treatment initiated in the previous appointment.
Dr. Stephenie Riley - Naturopathic Doctor Truckee Tahoe - Homeopathic Doctor Truckee Tahoe - EcoMom Doctor
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