Physical Medicine & Hydrotherapy
Nothing is softer and more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it. Lao TzuWhat is Physical Medicine?
Naturopathic doctors are trained in many hands-on modalities to treat physical discomfort, such as massage, joint manipulation, muscle stretching and strengthening, therapeutic exercise, and physiotherapy techniques like ultrasound and electrical muscle stimulation. All therapies are directed toward finding the root cause of discomfort and stimulating the body’s natural ability to heal. Physical well being is an intrinsic part of health, and neglected injuries or physical stresses can be detrimental to overall well being. Often, relieving physical pain can open new paths to healing for the entire organism. Physical medicine can help with a variety of complaints, from a sprained ankle to chronic pain, as well as support general health.
What is Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is another modality in which Naturopathic doctors are trained, and it represents the beginnings of Naturopathic Medicine. This system of medicine was founded by Benedict Lust in Germany, and he brought this novel approach to health to the United States in the late 1800s. Hydrotherapy uses water to treat illness and maintain health, and common treatments include alternating hot and cold applications, immersion salt baths, saunas, wraps, and medicinal packs. Hydrotherapy is useful in boosting the immune system and general vitality, relieving pain, and helping the body with detoxification.
I began seeing Dr. Carter for persistent and very painful chronic neck issues just over a year ago. She treated me for both the pain and the stress associated with graduate school that was likely contributing to my health concerns.
Dr. Carter is very comprehensive and effectively combined acupuncture and counseling in my treatment. Her treatments have greatly relieved my neck pain and I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking a treatment for pain that actually works. She is flexible and accommodating in her schedule, her office is comfortable, and her extensive knowledge base is evident in her approach to treatment in addition to running a small business. I really appreciated her thoroughness and her friendly, caring manner of relating to me as her patient.
“Every patient carries her or his own doctor inside.”
~Albert Schweitzer