BECOME ACQUAINTED WITH A DIFFERENT KIND OF DOCTOR - A NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

Naturopathic medicine integrates time-honored nutritional and healing practices with modern scientific medicine. Naturopathic physicians are trained as general practitioners to provide primary care services, such as ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (Pap smears and blood tests), and developing and utilizing a referral network.

The difference between conventional physicians and naturopathic physicians is the latter's distinct philosophy and understanding of the holistic nature of the body-mind continuum and its innate ability to heal itself, and the nature-based therapies that can be used to stimulate that healing.

NATURAL THERAPIES USED BY NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIANS

* Nutritional support

* Lifestyle modification

* Vitamin and mineral supplementation

* Herbal medicine

* Homeopathy

* Body-mind integration

* Physical medicine - US, hydrotherapy, FSM

At this time, most of these modalities may be used by other health professionals, as well. However, naturopathic physicians have pioneered their use and integration in this country over the last 100 years.

NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE SUPPORTS
THE BODY

It can be used in conjunction with any other form of medicine or therapy. Of course, there are times when specific herbs or nutrients cannot be used with certain medicines or procedures. Dr. Fleming is experienced in providing appropriate care in these situations, among which may be pre- and post-surgical care and adjunctive treatment for cancer or infertility.

CHILDREN RESPOND WELL TO NATUROPATHIC TREATMENTS

Dr. Fleming finds it particularly gratifying to treat children, as they are often quite responsive to naturopathic therapies, especially homeopathy, and parents can be educated as to how to respond to their child's health challenges without the recurrent use of antibiotics.

INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRITIONAL PROGRAMS

Finally, since naturopathic physicians believe that what you eat, and how your body responds to what you eat, lays the foundation for your health or lack there of, Dr. Fleming spends time with most patients assessing their nutritional status and working with them to develop an individualized dietary program. This process could include ordering or reviewing specific blood work, identifying food intolerances and/or reviewing dietary supplements that are already being used.

For more information about naturopathic medicine contact our office or one of the following web sites: www.naturopathic.org  or www.vanp.org.