Naturopathic Medicine and Inpatient Support
Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. The goal of naturopathic medicine is to restore balance in the body and promote long-term wellness. At its core, naturopathic medicine combines centuries-old healing practices with modern scientific knowledge to treat the whole person – mind, body and spirit. Practitioners use a broad range of natural treatments, including diet and nutrition, herbal medicine, acupuncture, physical medicine and lifestyle counseling.
Common Treatments in Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Physicians use a wide array of treatments tailored to each individual. Some of the most common methods include:
- Herbal Medicine: Plants and herbs have been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. NDs often use herbal remedies in combination with other treatments to help restore balance to the body.
- Nutrition and Diet: A healthy, balanced diet is foundational to naturopathic care. NDs often recommend specific dietary changes to help manage or prevent diseases, such as reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, or improving digestion.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to help restore energy flow and promote healing.
- Physical Medicine: Techniques like massage, hydrotherapy, and spinal manipulation are used to relieve pain and support physical function.
- Lifestyle Counseling: NDs often provide advice on stress management, exercise, sleep hygiene, and other aspects of mental and emotional health
At ECHN, we understand the importance of treating one’s illness and symptoms as well as treating the person as a whole to help the body prevent future illnesses and heal itself. On our inpatient care team, patients can request a Naturopathic Physician consultation to support their recovery. Naturopath Physicians can play a significant role in inpatient care by offering complementary support to conventional medical treatments in hospitals or healthcare settings.
Naturopathic Care at ECHN
One of the most notable contributions Naturopathic Physicians make in inpatient care is their focus on holistic healing. Naturopathic medicine considers not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional, mental and lifestyle factors that influence recovery. This approach can help hospitalized patients manage stress, anxiety and depression, which are common among those undergoing serious medical treatments or recovering from surgery. By addressing these non-physical aspects of health, naturopaths can improve overall patient well-being, expedite recovery, and boost the body's immune system.
Naturopathic care can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing conventional medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. For example, Naturopathic Physicians may help mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, fatigue and weakened immunity, by recommending supportive therapies like herbal remedies, acupuncture, or dietary adjustments. By complementing conventional medical treatments, naturopaths can help improve patient comfort and enhance the effectiveness of the primary treatment.
Naturopathic Physicians can offer emotional support through therapies such as guided meditation, relaxation techniques, or even mind-body therapies like aromatherapy. They may also address specific psychological concerns by recommending supplements known to support mood and mental clarity, such as omega-3 fatty acids or adaptogenic herbs. This emotional and psychological care can significantly improve a patient’s experience during their hospital stay and foster a more positive outlook for recovery.
Naturopathic Physicians offer valuable benefits in inpatient care by providing holistic, patient-centered support alongside conventional medical treatments. Their expertise in nutrition, pain management, emotional health, and preventive care can help reduce the need for pharmaceutical interventions, enhance recovery and support overall well-being. Integrating naturopathic principles with conventional hospital care can lead to more comprehensive, compassionate treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Naturopathic Physicians are a great addition to ECHN’s inpatient care team, and they work with your doctor to ensure you get back to healthy safely.