With constant aches, pains and stiff joints, you may look to many options to find relief. You may have tried a plethora of medications of which you can’t pronounce the names. Or, if you’re not suffering from chronic pain, you may be looking to improve your health, feel better and live life to the fullest.
There are several medical specialists that focus on the various areas of your health. But a naturopathic doctor takes on a unique approach. Naturopathic medicine is different than other practices in several ways. Here, we share six things to know about naturopathic doctors and what they do.
Naturopathic Doctors Combine Nature and Science
Naturopathy is seen as a combination of traditional and more natural health care approaches. An article from AANCM says that naturopathic doctors blend natural methods with conventional treatments.
Rather than just using one source of methodology, naturopathic doctors focus on several. An article from American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) notes several sources. Their practices include prevention, comprehensive diagnosis and treatments based on traditional healing methods.
There isn’t one sole reason to visit a naturopathic doctor. Integrated Wellness Clinic, a Gold Coast naturopath, notes that people visit for many reasons and naturopathic doctors can address many areas of healthcare. These may include primary care, health and well-being, and treating illnesses.
Naturopathic Doctors Treat Patients Holistically
Unlike a dentist who only focuses on teeth or a dermatologist who focuses on the skin, a naturopathic doctor addresses the patient as a whole.
AANP notes several injuries and ailments that they can treat successfully. These include chronic pain, digestive issues, respiratory problems, hormonal imbalances and many more. Their understanding includes that when one part of the body is struggling, other areas experience difficulty as well.
Naturopathic Doctors Don’t Emphasize Prescription Drugs
Although naturopathic doctors are able to prescribe medications, that’s not their focus. They first turn to natural and organic methods and strategies to heal whatever ailment is bothering the patient.
AANP notes that they “help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health.” Rather than introducing a chemical medicine, they tap into the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
When appropriate and the situation validates it, prescription drugs may be suggested. However, the emphasis is more on natural healing methods.
Naturopathic Doctors Work in a Variety of Environments
A hospital isn’t the only place you’ll find naturopathic doctors. Naturopathic doctors may also work in private practices, clinics and community health centers.
Because of the holistic and natural approach that naturopathic doctors take, their work may be popular in various areas. Therefore, they may not be restricted to one particular location or environment for their career.
Naturopathic Doctors Need Advanced Schooling
Just like any other kind of doctor, a naturopathic doctor must have many years of education and training. Naturopathic doctors must attend medical school. They must also pass the board exam and have experience in continuing medical education. These doctors also typically have a residency as part of their training.
They may also need to get their medical license, depending on where they plan on practicing. The requirements differ slightly between a naturopathic doctor and a medical doctor. However, the standards are fairly equal in education and preparation for both professions.
Naturopathic Doctors Use Various Methods of Treatment
Without relying on medication, naturopathic doctors may use a combination of natural remedies. These methods include nutrition, lifestyle and physical medicine and even herbal remedies.
Naturopathic doctors don’t just treat the symptoms someone is experiencing. They are also passionate about treating the cause of a particular issue. According to AANMC, these doctors encourage their patients to live an overall healthy life. They also incorporate preventative measures whenever possible and relevant.
During the visit, the naturopathic doctor will be ask about several areas of the patient’s health. They are interested in more than just one isolated issue. These doctors interview patients and record their history and current issues. They will also provide insight into healthy living practices such as diet and exercise.
Naturopathic doctors may even suggest dietary supplements, vitamins or herbs as a way to naturally address an issue. These small additions have the potential to make a big difference in the patient’s life and health.
With naturopathy, there are so many more options in discovering relief for your ailment or illness. You can even uncover new ways to live a healthier life. With the practical experience of naturopathic doctors, you can rest assured that you can be healthier from the inside out.
