Naturopathic manual therapy or Naturopathic Physical Medicine is the practice of remedial therapy in the context and philosophy of naturopathic medicine performed by a naturopath. It integrates both the scientific knowledge such as the Anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and overall musculoskeletal structure and the holistic principles of naturopathic medicine.
Naturopathic medicine clinicians understand that when a body is dysfunctional or diseased on a structural or physical level, that there is also a link to the internal function and health of the person. Therefore when a patient is assessed, an holistic diagnosis is made with consideration of the relationships of all the body systems not just the physical structure.
The type of modalities and techniques employed by each practitioner may vary however in Australia it usually encompasses a combination of the following:
- Remedial Massage
- Osteopathic manual therapy
- Myofascial Therapy
- Acupuncture and Cupping therapy
- Structural and Joint Realignment (Dorn Method)
- Joint Mobilizations
- Muscle Energy Techniques (MET)
- Neuromuscular Techniques (NMT)
- Positional Release
- Trigger Point Therapy
- Lymphatic Drainage
- Occupational and Ergonomic Assessment
- Hydrotherapy
- Electrotherapy (tens or microcurrent)
- Exercise Therapy
- Nutritional Medicine and Diet
- Herbal and Homeopathic Prescription
In contrast to the other major professions using physical medicine, the theory of NMT is to identify the individuals maladaptive responses, sub optimal system and organ function caused by reduced vitality leading to chronic and acute disease and toxicity.
The aim of therapy is to strengthen vitality by addressing the underlying cause and to stimulate self healing mechanisms via the use of nutrition, herbal and homeopathic medicines, lifestyle and holistic physical therapies.
A comparison of the the Main Modalities utilizing Physical Medicine.
According to Paul Orrock ND DO Chapter 1 pg 17 Naturopathic Physical Medicine