You may have heard about alternative medicine like acupuncture and healing without surgery. You may also have heard of a naturopathic doctor. But you might not have much more than name recognition. There is a wide range of healing practices that are considered alternative medicines, which are delivered by naturopathic doctors.
It might surprise you to learn that a naturopathic doctor is actually trained as a primary care doctor. They use integrated methods for treatment that rely on both hard science and natural remedies that have been in use for centuries. They use a holistic approach to care.
Is it Really an Alternative Treatment?
Sometimes, the label that is used to describe integrated physical medicine that provides natural pain relief is misleading. When you hear “alternative medicine,” it conjures thoughts up of treatments that are not widely accepted and even controversial. However, many “alternative” treatments are treatments that have been in practice for centuries and produce positive results.
A good example is acupuncture. Acupuncture has been in practice for thousands of years and is a great option for natural pain relief and natural injury recovery. It is a viable alternative to western medicine, which often relies on prescription medications. Outside of the U.S., acupuncture may be seen as the go-to solution for a wide range of ailments.
Other treatments that are labeled as an “alternative” in the U.S. that are widely accepted worldwide are:
- Massage therapy
- Non-surgical techniques
- Drug free healing options
There are many treatments that are available from a respected naturopathic doctor Portland patients trust. Many countries around the globe depend on a naturopathic approach.
For example, in Germany, 70% of all prescriptions are written for natural compounds, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments. The healthcare focus in many European countries and Asian countries is on wellness and treating root causes, not on treating symptoms. At a time when the U.S. continues to battle an opioid epidemic fueled by prescription drug use, we have a lot to learn from the way in which other nations approach medicine and healing.
What To Expect With a Naturopathic Doctor
A naturopathic doctor is not an anti-Western-medicine doctor. They are doctors who believe in a holistic approach to wellness and use integrated treatment methods. They treat the whole patient by considering their lifestyle, medical history, family history, and nutritional needs. This doesn’t mean they simply ignore the need for medication when it’s necessary. They’re simply open to a number of other options that can produce positive results.
Overall, they offer natural solutions to health problems. They focus on the cause of the problem instead of treating just the symptoms with a handful of prescription medications. Your appointment starts with an in-depth interview so that the provider can get to know you and understand your needs.
With a naturopathic doctor, you are a real partner in your own wellness. Your doctor will come up with a customized health care treatment plan to help you get on the path to wellness and stay there. The naturopathic doctor understands every single body is unique and deserves a customized approach to healing.
This may be the healthcare that you have been searching for. Learn how by making your appointment today.