What Is a Naturopathic Doctor?

October 9, 2024
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Looking for natural, holistic healthcare?

Let’s explore what naturopathic medicine is and whether it’s right for you.

 

Naturopathic doctors are healthcare professionals who focus on natural, holistic approaches to healing designed to treat the root cause of illnesses rather than just addressing symptoms.

If you’re curious about naturopathy and how it may complement your health goals, understanding the role of naturopathic doctors can provide valuable insight.

In this post, we’ll explore what naturopathic medicine is, the education and licensing requirements for NDs, and how their approach aligns with chiropractic care.

 

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What Is Naturopathic Medicine?

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of symptoms, rather than simply managing them.

Rooted in the belief that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself, naturopathic medicine aims to remove obstacles to health and support the body’s natural healing processes. It addresses not only physical symptoms but also the “body, mind, and spirit,” treating the whole person for comprehensive care.

Common treatments in naturopathic medicine include herbal medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy, and lifestyle counseling. These therapies are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, helping to restore balance and promote long-term wellness.

Homeopathy herbs and medicine pills. Selective focus. Nature.

The Six Principles of Naturopathic Medicine, as outlined by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), guide naturopathic doctors in their practice:

  1. First, Do No Harm – Use the least invasive treatments and avoid harmful side effects.
  2. The Healing Power of Nature – Trust the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
  3. Identify and Treat the Cause – Focus on the underlying cause of illness rather than the symptoms.
  4. Doctor as Teacher – Educate patients and empower them to take control of their health.
  5. Treat the Whole Person – Consider all factors influencing a patient’s health: body, mind, and spirit.
  6. Prevention – Focus on disease prevention and promote healthy lifestyle habits.

By following these principles, naturopathic doctors offer a personalized and natural approach to health that aligns well with chiropractic care.

 

What Is a Naturopathic Doctor?

A Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD), also known as a naturopathic doctor or naturopathic physician, is a healthcare professional who has completed a four-year graduate program from an accredited naturopathic medical school. NMDs are trained as primary care physicians and treat a wide variety of conditions.

In contrast, a Traditional Naturopath has not attended a formal naturopathic medical school and is not licensed to practice medicine. While they may offer natural treatments, traditional naturopaths lack the formal education and training required to be licensed as healthcare providers.

In some cases, licensed healthcare providers such as doctors, dentists, chiropractors, and other medical professionals may also have training in naturopathic medicine, allowing them to incorporate holistic principles into their practice.

Functional medicine female practitioner recommending dietary supplement to a client

In Florida, while naturopathic doctors are required to have a license, the state no longer issues naturopathic licenses.

For patients in Florida seeking naturopathic care, alternatives like functional medicine may be an option. Functional medicine is similar to naturopathic medicine but focuses more on genetics and may incorporate some traditional medical practices.

Additionally, healthcare providers like acupuncturists or chiropractors with training in holistic approaches can offer treatments that align with naturopathic principles.

Smiling Female Doctor Holding Medicine Bottle, Symbolizing Healthcare And Medical Care

Pros and Cons of Naturopathic Medicine

Like any form of healthcare, naturopathic medicine has its advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to weigh these factors when considering naturopathic treatments, especially in states like Florida where naturopathic doctors are not licensed.

Pros of Naturopathic Medicine

  • Holistic Approach: Naturopathic medicine treats the whole person, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional and mental health, and focusing on long-term wellness rather than short-term symptom relief.
  • Natural and Non-Invasive Treatments: Naturopathic doctors use natural therapies such as herbal medicine, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, and acupuncture, which can reduce the reliance on pharmaceutical drugs or invasive procedures.
  • Focus on Prevention: Naturopathic medicine emphasizes preventive care, promoting healthy lifestyle changes to prevent illness before it starts.
  • Personalized Care: Naturopathic treatments are highly individualized, with treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique health needs and circumstances.

Cons of Naturopathic Medicine

  • Licensing Restrictions in Florida: In Florida, naturopathic doctors are not licensed, making it difficult to find qualified practitioners. While House Bill 843 (HB 843) was introduced to establish a licensing system, it died in an appropriations committee.
  • Limited Availability of Naturopathic Doctors: Due to the lack of licensing in Florida, those interested in naturopathic medicine may have to travel out of state or consult other licensed healthcare providers who have studied naturopathic methods.
  • May Not Be Covered by Insurance: Depending on your health insurance plan, naturopathic treatments may not be fully covered, leading to out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Longer Treatment Time: Since naturopathic medicine focuses on gradual healing and lifestyle changes, it may take longer to see results compared to conventional medical treatments.

Considering these pros and cons, patients in Florida may need to explore alternative holistic care options, such as working with functional medicine practitioners or licensed healthcare providers like chiropractors who incorporate naturopathic principles into their treatments.

The front desk as Oviedo Chiropractic

Where Does Chiropractic Care Fit In?

For those in Florida who may find it difficult to locate a licensed naturopathic doctor, chiropractic care can be a great alternative or complement to naturopathic medicine.

Both fields share a common goal of treating the whole person by focusing on natural, non-invasive methods to promote the body’s ability to heal itself. In fact, chiropractic adjustments work by relieving pressure on the surrounding nerves, muscles, and other soft tissues, allowing your body to heal itself and function more naturally.

Chiropractic care is a safe, side-effect-free option that works seamlessly with naturopathic remedies as well as traditional medical treatments. By focusing on spinal alignment and nervous system health, chiropractors can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being, all while supporting other holistic treatments you may be exploring.

Whether you’re seeking relief from pain or looking to improve your overall health, chiropractic care can offer the natural, non-invasive approach you’re looking for.

 

Conclusion

If you’re in Central Florida and looking for a natural, holistic approach to healthcare, Oviedo Chiropractic offers an excellent alternative to naturopathic medicine.

With two experienced chiropractors on staff, a dedicated medical massage team, and convenient Saturday hours, we provide comprehensive, patient-centered care designed to support your overall health and well-being.

In addition to spinal adjustments, we offer a range of in-office services such as X-rays, E-stim, and flexion-distraction therapy to help diagnose and treat various conditions. Best of all, we accept most insurance plans, making it easy for you to access the care you need.

Whether you’re looking to manage pain, improve mobility, or enhance your overall wellness, Oviedo Chiropractic is here to help you feel your best naturally.

Justin Cough

Dr. Justin Cough, D.C.

Dr. Cough graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, FL after receiving his BS in Education from SUNY Oswego. Before becoming a chiropractor, he coached many middle and high school sports teams including football, lacrosse, basketball, and soccer. He is passionate about focusing on our bodies' natural healing mechanisms and helping his patients enjoy the utmost sustainability in their lives.

For some, chiropractic offers relief from pain. For others, it's about feeling and looking good. Call today and see what chiropractic can do for you!

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Oviedo Chiropractic

Address:
2871 Clayton Crossing Way Suite 1073
Oviedo, FL 32765
Phone:
(407) 542-1614
Fax:
(407) 542-1615*
Email:
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