Naturopathic Manual Therapy looks at musculoskeletal system as an integral and interrelated part of the total human organism. It takes into consideration the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Naturopathic Manual Medicine focuses on the musculoskeletal system, which comprises more than 60% of the human organism, and through which evaluation of the other organ systems must be made. Structural diagnosis not only evaluates the musculoskeletal system for its particular diseases and dysfunctions, but also can be used to evaluate the somatic manifestations of disease and derangement of the internal viscera. Manual therapy used primarily to increase mobility in restricted areas of musculoskeletal function and to reduce pain. When appropriately used, it can be clinically effective in reducing and eliminating pain within the musculoskeletal system, in increasing the level of wellness of the client, and helping clients with a myriad of disease processes.
According to American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, Naturopathic ManualTherapy(NMT) is an integral part of the practice of Naturopathic Medicine, and its application is based on naturopathic principles of practice. Naturopathic manual therapy (NMT) is a distinctive manual method used to re-establish balance in the neuromuscular and skeletal systems.It is based on the idea that dysfunction must be alleviated in both the joints and muscles of the body in order for long lasting benefits to be attained. Naturopathic Manipulative Therapy uses a combination of techniques including, but not limited to, manipulation of dysfunctional joints, massage, physical therapy techniques, muscular re-education, home exercise programs, and certain physiotherapy modalities (i.e., ultrasound, ultraviolet, infrared and low level laser light, heat, cold, etc.). These manual and mechanical techniques involve the use of oscillation, thrust, pressure and sustained tension including but not limited to: high and low velocity techniques, high and low amplitude techniques, traction, mobilization through physiologic and extra-physiologic ranges of motion including passive intrinsic mobility of all body joints, and repositioning of displaced body tissues and organs. Naturopathic manipulative treatment, as a traditional, integral and essential part of naturopathic medical practice, is a distinct and unique manipulative technique. Naturopathic medicine continues to evolve and integrate new man
ual therapeutic methods such as Myoskeletal Alignment method based on naturopathic principles and philosophy.
Since Naturopathic Manual medicine incorporates a wide array of methods, techniques, and modalities, Myoskeletal Therapy is one of the most effective tools for me as a manual therapist to use in my pain management practice. This method is indicated for treatment of restricted joints, including spinal, and where soft tissue changes are a factor of the restriction, or to enhance joint play and increased range when an intra-articular feature restricts free movement.
When we treat the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – we always remember that the body includes more just biochemical reactions. Its physical structures can have as much impact on bodily health as nutrients and toxins.