When a more natural approach to health and healing is desired, many people opt to pay a naturopathic physician a visit. This type of alternative medicine doctor will take a holistic approach to healing that includes treating the whole person with natural remedies rather than chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Going to this kind of doctor, however, can be a completely different experience than what many are accustomed to. It can help to have an idea of what to expect before reporting in for a first appointment.
Preparing For A Visit
Before visiting a naturopathic doctor, patients need to be aware that this medical specialty is quite different than traditional medicine. A naturopath will try to treat the whole person – this means addressing physical complaints, while keeping an eye on the emotional and spiritual, as well.
Patients going to a naturopath for the first time don't really need to prepare anything for the visit. They can facilitate a first appointment, however, by considering such things as:
• Their diet – Being able to explain standard nutritional intake can assist greatly during a first visit.
• The current or ongoing complaints – As it is with any doctor, a naturopath will want to hear specifics about the complaint to assist with diagnosis.
• Their physical activity level – It is not uncommon for a naturopath to ask about physical activities, such as routine exercise.
What To Expect During A First Visit
A naturopath is likely to spend a great deal of time with a patient on a first visit. This is to help them gain a better overall picture of the person, their physical complaints, nutritional standing and even emotional and spiritual well-being. It is not uncommon for first appointments to last an hour or more, during which time some basic tests may also be performed.
Therapies Used
Naturopaths use a variety of therapies to help them treat patients. They will generally seek the most natural approach to healing. Therapies may include:
• Herbal and/or homeopathic medicines for specific health complaints
• Nutritional counseling
• Hydrotherapy
• Physical medicine, including manipulation of bones and muscles, hot and cold compresses and touch
• Nutritional counseling
• Acupuncture
• Spiritual, lifestyle and/or psychological counseling
Naturopaths seek to treat the whole person. With this in mind, new patients can expect a much more in-depth visit than they might encounter with a traditional medical practitioner.
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