Welcome to Issue 14 of Chiropractic Economics
In this issue we dive into the integration of natural medicine into chiropractic care plans. Today’s practitioners are embracing a multi-dimensional approach to healing—one that empowers the body’s natural systems and honors the individuality of every patient. If you’re curious about new possibilities in healing, these insights aim to expand your perspective—and your therapeutic toolkit.
The root of the cause
Naturopathic and chiropractic approaches are all about identifying and treating underlying causes of illness, rather than simply dealing with symptoms. Their shared philosophy embraces the intricate connections among the body’s systems, recognizing that true wellness stems from balance and harmony.
“From removing barriers to healing and leveraging targeted nutritional and microbial strategies,” writes Daina Parent, ND, “centered approaches support comprehensive wellness, from musculoskeletal health to cognitive clarity.” Both naturopathic doctors (NDs) and doctors of chiropractic (DCs) believe in the body’s inherent capacity to heal itself, especially when supported through thoughtful nutrition, proper structural alignment and sustainable healthy-lifestyle habits.
Power of CBD
As a noninvasive, plant-based therapy, CBD fits right into this paradigm. According to Joe Kryszak, MBA, “Integrating CBD into naturopathic care offers a scientifically supported, patient-centered approach that aligns with these core values.” Not just any CBD will do, though; Kryszak emphasizes the importance of sourcing high-quality, third-party tested CBD products to ensure accurate labeling and dosing, as well as the absence of contaminants.
Nondrug brain enhancement
Natural nootropics, compounds that improve brain function, such as focus, memory, energy and emotional regulation, offer cognition-boosting benefits without the harsh side effects of synthetic drugs. “As practitioners, we’re uniquely positioned to offer patients tools that address both the neurochemical and lifestyle dimensions of healing,” writes Cindy M. Howard, DC. These holistic alternatives offer a gentler, more sustainable path for patients who want to reclaim clarity, energy and emotional steadiness.
Opioid-free pain relief
Pain relief is available in holistic format, too. According to Payam Hakimi, DO, “Homeopathic medicines offer patients low-risk, effective relief.” By maintaining a library of effective homeopathic medicines, you can help ease patients’ discomfort. Chinese herbal remedies can also help manage pain, according to John Scott, DOM.
Bring it all together
Chiropractic and naturopathic medicine complement each other and combine to promote integrative medicine (IM), merging traditional healing practices focused on patient-centered care with contemporary medical tools and applications. According to Sonia V. Joubert, DC, ND, “You can develop comprehensive, well-coordinated treatment plans, ensuring patient safety while optimizing health outcomes.”
This integrated approach may be the best way to help your patients achieve what we all want: to live longer, but also to live better. “With the science of aging now supporting what we’ve believed for decades,” writes Mark Sanna, DC, “we have a unique opportunity to lead the charge in the Longevity Revolution.”
I hope these expert insights guide you on your journey to support your patients in their goal of achieving whole-body wellness more naturally.
To your health, prosperity and success!
Gloria N. Hall
Editor-in-chief
