Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine is a distinct primary health care system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine. With the ability to treat both acute and chronic conditions, therapies are individualized to each patient.
Much like your medical doctor, we will take your medical history, do a physical exam, order lab tests and diagnose what ails you. The range of treatments are vast and could include pharmaceuticals, herbal medicine, vitamins, diet changes or physical therapies.
We have the luxury of time, and will always give you ample time to air your concerns and fully explain your symptoms. Above all, Naturopathic Medicine is focused on working with the patient to finding and treating the underlying cause of disease.
Naturopathic Principles
First Do No Harm – Minimize the risks of treatment
The Healing Power of Nature – Support and restore the inherent ability of your body to heal itself
Identify and Treat the Cause – Determine the underlying cause of disease rather than manage symptoms
Treat the Whole Person – Each person is unique and requires individualized care that takes into account their entire body and constellation of symptoms
Doctor as Teacher – Assist patients in understanding their bodies and what treatments are available to them
Disease Prevention and Health Promotion – The approach to healthcare is one that is proactive and based in enhanced lifestyle habits, which decrease the chance of disease.
Primary Care
Naturopathic Physicians are licensed to diagnose medical conditions and perform physical exams in the same manner as your medical doctor. We treat patients that come in with acute illnesses, as well as long-standing conditions and those in good health that wish to optimize their wellbeing.
Core Treatment Modalities
Medical Nutrition & Supplements
Diet is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your health. A change in diet however is one of the most difficult shifts that you can make in your life. Your ND will work with you to provide helpful suggestions that you can easily incorporate into your life. We promise to provide you with the information necessary to make an informed decision about what you are eating. “Supplementation” should be just that, a supplement to a balanced diet. The amount of supplementation will depend on the deficiencies in diet and the possible increase in required nutrients, based on your medical history and current health concerns.
Botanical Medicine
Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years as one of the most ancient forms of medicine. Some herbs are so potent that their key ingredients have been synthesized into mainstream pharmaceuticals. The great advantage of whole plants is that they have been intricately designed by nature as balanced medicines that bring your body back into harmony. Botanical medicine is a safe and effective treatment for various diseases and dysfunctions.
Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a very well established form of medicine that speaks primarily to a balance between organs. The diagnosis of disease is done through specific questioning and an evaluation of Chinese tongue and pulse. Acupuncture is a method of rebalancing your organ systems as well as directly treating disease. Physiologically, acupuncture stimulates natural endorphins, which leads to a decrease in pain. This therapy is very effective in the treatment of sports injuries, back pain and any sore muscles. We incorporate the use of traditional acupuncture with modern techniques in Intramuscular Stimulation to decrease pain, induce muscle relaxation and decrease stress.
Spinal Manipulation & Soft Tissue Therapy
Naturopathic Physicians have the unique ability to combine massage, fascial work, hydrotherapy, spinal assessment and manipulation techniques. The integration of all these treatments leads to successful pain reduction, management of injuries or simple stress reduction and personal care. Every muscle in the body works in balance with each other and synergistically with bones, cartilage and fascia. Proper diagnosis of physical injury requires the assessment and treatment of all these interconnected bits & pieces.
Emotional and Lifestyle Counselling
The backbone of good health is a solid emotional foundation. Naturopathic physicians are all trained in basic counseling skills, but our greatest service to you will be our willingness to listen. We will help you identify where your mental and emotional health require support and we will work with you to strengthen those areas, as well as refer you to the appropriate professionals as needed. Above all, the doctors at Arc Integrated Medicine will help you create a well-balanced life that integrates physical, mental and emotional health.
Once you have seen a doctor at Arc Integrated Medicine for your initial intake, you may book an Acupuncture appointment whenever you feel the need to take a relaxing break from the daily grind! Contact the clinic for details about Acupuncture packages.