Advantages and Disadvantages of Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine is fantastic, but it’s not a miracle cure. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of alternative medicine when visiting your naturopathic doctor in Scottsdale can help you approach treatment with more realistic expectations, supporting a positive outcome and reducing disappointment.

Alternative Medicine in Scottsdale: Know Before You Go!

PROS

• A holistic approach…
  Alternative medicine emphasizes whole-person care, rather than traditional medicine’s sole focus on problem areas – one of the main reasons the use of alternative medicine is on the rise. 

• A personal touch…
  Alternative medicine offers more one-on-one attention versus the packed waiting room, time-strapped milieu you’ll get in conventional doctors’ offices. 

• A focus on prevention…
  Well visits, rather than sick care is stressed, emphasizing a proactive approach to whole mind and body wellness.
  
  “The superior doctor prevents sickness;
  The mediocre doctor attends to impending sickness;
  The inferior doctor treats actual sickness.”
  - Chinese Proverb
  
  

     CONS

• Limited scientific research…
  Though scientific research into alternative approaches is on the rise due to increased consumer demand, compared to traditional methods, evidence is more limited in scope and largely related to clinical outcomes. 

• Confusing jargon...
  For those not in-the-know, supplement, vitamin, mineral, and herb jargon can be confusing, as can the common assumption that “natural” means risk-free. 

• Potential drug interactions...
  Even in products with no artificial ingredient, vitamins, minerals, and herbs may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medication – or create side effects of their own. Opting for primary care physicians with a more integrative approach can reduce these risks. 

• Not for emergencies…
  While alternative medicine is great for palliative and preventive care, severe emergencies are best treated by conventional care.

It is possible to enjoy the best of both worlds – with the help of the right naturopathic doctor in Scottsdale. Experience superior health. Find an integrative alternative medicine center near you today.

Can primary care physicians also be naturopaths?

People often ask us, “Why choose a primary care physician who is also a naturopath?” The answer, surprisingly, isn’t as complex as one might think!

In many ways, the current-day relationship between traditional medicine and naturopathy has never been more compatible. For example, conventional doctors presently incorporate into their medical paradigm the idea of using certain foods to prevent diseases such as cancer, though even a mere thirty years ago this connection between food and health had not yet been fully recognized by traditional medicine.

So the fact is, people whose doctors have advised them to eat fruits and vegetables to guard against cancer have been given medical advice that in recent years might have been considered to be alternative medicine. Many people feel that this is only the beginning—that conventional and natural medicines will continue to become less and less at odds, until one day each will fully validate the other.

Certainly for our group of doctors in Arizona, that day has already arrived! At the Rockwood Natural Medicine Clinic, you’ll find our naturopaths and  primary care physicians to be a group of caring and experienced professionals who specialize in keeping an open mind—supplementing the latest treatments in conventional medicine with emerging naturopathic resources that are, more likely, the re-emergence of age-old and time-tested natural traditions.

With the expertise gained from years of experience in both styles of medicine, our team at Rockwood specializes in a blending of perspectives, a merger which we believe strengthens both sides and creates a united front against disease. Don’t hesitate to call us today to learn more about the advantages of choosing a primary care physician who is also a naturopath. Feel free, also, to visit us online at or at your convenience if you’d like more information.

Why Conventional Healthcare May End Up Sitting on the Sidelines PART 1

Naturopathic medicine is booming in AZ, its popularity fueled by the many advantages it offers over the traditional healthcare model. Disenchanted with many facets of standard all medical care, individuals yearning for a patient centered doctors, more individualized approach and more NATURAL approach to their healthcare needs are finding those needs met in Arizona naturopathic alternatives in medicine.

Who is nuzzling up to naturopathy?
According to studies from multiple sources, including the NIH, NCCIH, and CDC, people are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of naturopathic medicine, flocking to providers to find relief to issues from stress and chronic pain to more serious internal conditions. How commonly is it used? A 2008 study showed approximately 4 in 10 adults and 1 in 9 children use some form of complementary and alternative medicine – and those numbers are expected to rise significantly.

What are the advantages of going alternative?

• A focus on health and wellness – not sick care.
  As opposed to merely reacting to disease and imbalance, the goal of naturopathic medicine is the maintenance of health and wellness through the restoration of balance or homeostasis. This is accomplished by  addressing the needs of the whole body from mind and spirit down to the flesh, bones, and organs. Naturopathic physicians take a holistic approach that is a more logical and desirable solution than an hour office wait, 10 minute doctor consult, and the dispensing of side-effect ridden prescriptions.
• Immersion in a healthful lifestyle.
  Personal responsibility in the form of adequate exercise and sleep, proper diet, sufficient sun exposure, stress reduction, and nurturing the self and relationships form the foundation for health in natural and alternative medicine.
• Customizable treatment options.
  Naturopathic medicine does not take a one-size-fits-all approach. “Illness A” does not automatically equate to “antibiotic or drug B.” Treatment plans and options vary from person to person based upon individual presentations and needs rather than the same disease, same treatment protocols commonly encountered.

What else are naturopathic and alternative medical practitioners offering that is rallying the team in communities nationwide?
 Stay tuned for: Why Conventional Healthcare May End Up Sitting on the Sidelines PART 2...

Is Choosing an Alternative Medicine Practitioner Freaking You Out?

Don't let the theme song from the Twilight Zone blast through your head at the idea of choosing an alternative medicine practitioner. There’s nothing strange about alternative medicine and naturopathy – or those that practice it. And you don’t need a degree in these healing arts to find the perfect practitioner to meet your health care needs.  

Selection 101: It’s not that different from choosing other types of healthcare providers…

• Get a referral.
  Ask your doctor, other healthcare providers, or insurance company if they have a list of alternative medicine and naturopathic medical practitioners they would recommend in your area.
   
• Contact local organizations.
  Looking for a particularly modality, like naturopathy? National organizations such as the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and local professional organizations such as the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association will have a list of practitioners in your area.
   
• Check credentials.
  You wouldn’t go to a doctor whose degree was in automotive repair. Ditto for alternative medicine practitioners. Once you identify potential prospects, look into their education, training, licensing, and certifications. Credentials vary by discipline – and by state – so you may need to do a bit of research to verify necessary requirements.
   
• Go for team players.
  Choose a practitioner who is willing – or better yet comfortable – at working together with your conventional healthcare providers. Communication and cooperation ensures safe, coordinated care.
   
• Make sure they’re in the know.
  Does the practitioner have specialized training or prior experience in working with individuals with your condition? Are they aware of available research as to how their modality can treat your condition? Choosing a practitioner that is familiar with your situation and understands how to handle your specific needs is key to safe and successful treatment results.
   
• Don’t assume insurance coverage.
  While some coverage is usually available for alternative medical modalities (massage, acupuncture, chiropractic), not all approaches may be covered by your insurance provider. Request alternative healthcare providers verify insurance coverage (or lack thereof) prior to your visit. This will help curtail unexpected costs and frustration.  

Think you’ve found the perfect practitioner?
Get a treatment! Meeting your practitioner in person and getting a treatment is the best way to find out if it’s a match made in heaven – or if another search is in your future. When it’s the right fit, you just know.

Start the path to superior health. Find a great alternative medicine and naturopathic medical practitioner in your area today!

Hot Flash - I Mean News Flash! Naturopathic Medicine Reduces Menopause Symptoms

If you, like other menopausal women, have been toting around the spray bottle with the fan on it and advertising your menopausal status to the public at large, it’s time for a change. Not “the change” – a change in the way you handle your menopausal symptoms with the help of naturopathic medicine for women.


The laundry list:
Hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, depression and mood swings, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, and increased risk of bone loss and osteoporosis are just some of the steamy struggles you’re experiencing – and they can last an average of 2 years!  

Ready to clean up this hot mess? Naturopathic medicine can take these tough issues to task!

• Natural progesterone
  In contrast to the synthetic progestin of HRT, natural progesterone derived from wild yam or soy is identical to the body’s own hormones, and relatively free of side effects. In addition to relieving hot flashes and many other symptoms of menopause, studies have also found natural progesterone capable of reversing bone loss.
   
• Phytoestrogens
  Plants such as soy, alfalfa, fennel, licorice root, dong quai, black cohosh, and chaste berries balance female hormones and offer relief from hot flashes and other menopausal complaints.
   
• Soy
  Rich in phytoestrogens, soy relieves many menopausal complaints, and has been associated with reducing breast and other cancer risks. It has also been linked with a reduction in heart disease and osteoporosis.
   
• Black cohosh
  The potent phytoestrogens of black cohosh are very effective at treating menopausal complaints sans side effects. When compared with estrogen replacement therapy, in multiple trials it was found to offer equal or better results than its prescription alternative. Black cohosh also effectively treats depression and vaginal atrophy as well.
   
• Nutritional supplements
  There are several nutritional supplements which can alleviate hot flashes, including vitamin E, hesperidin, and vitamin C. In a study, the combination of vitamin C and hesperidin was found to relieve symptoms in 87% of subjects. Vitamin E also relieves vaginal dryness.
   
• Exercise
  Believe it or not, exercise can relieve hot flashes, as well as reduce the risk of developing cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and more.

Ready to quench that fire? Find a naturopathic physician near you today!

Senior Get Benefits from Naturopathic Medicine

As a senior, you need to be proactive about keeping your body healthy. How can you assure healthy aging and avoid “sick care” in the medical industry? With the help of naturopathic and alternative medicine ...

Age gracefully and healthfully with the help of naturopathic medicine…

• It’s not complicated.
  Your naturopathic doctorwill help you maintain optimum health with common sense techniques such as nutrition, exercise and preventive medicine. And don’t worry – your doctor doesn’t expect you to be a health nut – merely health conscious.
   
• It’s a HEALTHY natural solution.
  When medicine is needed, it’s natural, comprised of natural ingredients, giving your body the right tools to return itself back to health. Many ingredients are antibacterial (which help in resolving ailments), and none produce fatigue or drowsiness.
   
• It can help you feel better!
  Allowing you to better deal with everyday issues and get down to the important stuff – enjoying life.
   
• It’s just for you!
  Naturopathic solutions are unique to each individual. No cookie cutter plans here!

What kind of healthcare solutions might you expect from naturopathic medicine?

• Increasing water intake.
  This helps your body fight infections, can resolve headaches, maintain blood pressure, even ease back pain by boosting lubrication in your spinal discs.
   
• A cleaner diet.
  Clean, healthful food not only provides essential vitamins and nutrients, but allows your body to focus on its most important job – watching out for you!
   
• Vitamins, minerals, and natural medicine.
  These will help return essential nutrients to your body and reduce toxin buildup following years of consumption of processed foods.
   
• Emphasis on investing in “you.”
  From exercise and sleep to meeting psychological and spiritual needs through faith, friendship, and spending time on hobbies you enjoy.

Geriatric naturopathic medicine gives seniors the opportunity to explore natural treatment options to improve and maintain their health. Don’t miss out on this tremendous health resource. Find a naturopathic doctor in your area today!

Why Conventional Healthcare May End Up Sitting on the Sidelines PART 2

Additional alternative advantages include…

• An open-minded approach.
  
  Practitioners of naturopathic medicine are quick to identify the need for multiple therapeutic approaches in meeting patients’ healthcare goals. That it is logical to incorporate health strategies from a wide array of proven approaches, and thus are willing and able to work in tandem with multiple practitioners and modalities.   
  
• More personalized practitioner/patient relationships. 
  Naturopathic practitioners recognize the critical nature of their relationship with patients. Not only is the amount of time doctors spend with patients associated with overall patient satisfaction, naturopathic physicians recognize this time investment as necessary for piecing together a complete knowledge base for each patient. They understand rushed, impersonal meetings do not create an adequate picture – or produce adequate results. 
    
• Natural solutions counter consumer distrust of prescription medicines. 
  Inflated pricing of much needed medication. Direct to consumer marketing. Mandatory vaccinations. Side effects and adverse reactions leading to prescription drugs becoming the 4th leading cause of death in the U.S. with over 100,000 deaths per year. All these things and more are leading today’s savvy consumer to the safer, far less costly alternatives naturopathic medicine offers. 
    
  
• Proven efficacy. 
  As major medical journals continue to publish research on the efficacy of complementary and alternative treatments, patients aren’t the only ones climbing on the bandwagon. Conventional physicians are increasingly recommending treatment and incorporating naturopathic medicine into their clinics as well. 
  

Don’t get benched by your health issues. Naturopathic medicine can help. Find a quality naturopath practitioner in your area today!

Is Choosing an Alternative Medicine Practitioner Freaking You Out?

Don't let the theme song from the Twilight Zone blast through your head at the idea of choosing an alternative medicine practitioner. There’s nothing strange about naturopathic and alternative medicine – or those that practice it. And you don’t need a degree in these healing arts to find the perfect practitioner to meet your health care needs.  

Selection 101: It’s not that different from choosing other types of healthcare providers…

• Get a referral.
  Ask your doctor, other healthcare providers, or insurance company if they have a list of alternative medicine and naturopathic medical practitioners they would recommend in your area.
   
• Contact local organizations.
  Looking for a particularly modality, like naturopathy? National such as the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and local professional organizations such as the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association will have a list of practitioners in your area.
   
• Check credentials.
  You wouldn’t go to a doctor whose degree was in automotive repair. Ditto for alternative medicine practitioners. Once you identify potential prospects, look into their education, training, licensing, and certifications. Credentials vary by discipline – and by state – so you may need to do a bit of research to verify necessary requirements.
   
• Go for team players.
  Choose a practitioner who is willing – or better yet comfortable – at working together with your conventional healthcare providers. Communication and cooperation ensures safe, coordinated care.
   
• Make sure they’re in the know.
  Does the practitioner have specialized training or prior experience in working with individuals with your condition? Are they aware of available research as to how their modality can treat your condition? Choosing a practitioner that is familiar with your situation and understands how to handle your specific needs is key to safe and successful treatment results.
   
• Don’t assume insurance coverage.
  While some coverage is usually available for alternative medical modalities (massage, acupuncture, chiropractic), not all approaches may be covered by your insurance provider. Request alternative healthcare providers verify insurance coverage (or lack thereof) prior to your visit. This will help curtail unexpected costs and frustration.  

Think you’ve found the perfect practitioner?
Get a treatment! Meeting your practitioner in person and getting a treatment is the best way to find out if it’s a match made in heaven – or if another search is in your future. When it’s the right fit, you just know.

Start the path to superior health. Find a great alternative medicine and naturopathic medical practitioner in your area today!