What is Naprapathy?

Naprapathic Medicine [from the Czech napravit (to correct) and the Greek pathos (suffering)] has its roots in the beginning of the 20th century. Dr. Oakley Smith, one of the earliest graduates of Dr. D. D. Palmer, founder of Chiropractic, soon realized that a method was needed to provide treatment of pain and suffering with origins outside the scope of chiropractic. In his research, Dr. Smith discovered that a good portion of back, neck, and joint pain was the result of improper balance and alignment of the connective tissues of the human body. In 1905, Dr. Smith developed a method to diagnose and treat these imbalances through gentle, manual manipulation of the connective tissues. Tension findings are taken on the spinal column and joints to determine the correct course of treatment.  The treatment serves to normalize neuromuscular and cardiovascular functions Dr. Smith's methods, combined with sound nutritional counseling, form the basis of Naprapathic Medicine.

What can I expect for a treatment  ?

                                    A session involves thorough spinal findings, postural analysis and nutritional counseling. Treatment targets tension and painful areas along shortened tissues. Gentle stretching these areas brings relief, and healing begins. Cetain modalities may be used.  A course of treatment is then established. 

Cranio-Sacral Therapy may also be incorporated in the treatment plan.

Why would I go to a  naprapath ?

 A naprapath can treat and relieve pain and discomfort in a gentle, natural way, without drugs or surgery. Naprapaths use other treatment modalities such as Infrared, deep tissue manipulation, trigger point therapy, electro-stim, ultrasound, and muscle stripping to name a few.

How does a naprapath different from  a :

chiroprator ?

In general, chiropractors focus on the realignment of bone joints and may employ some high velocity movements to accomplish this. Naprapaths focus on the connective tissue around the bones; they use gentle, slow techniques to treat the tension in the ligaments, tendons and muscles.  

physical therapist ?

A PT uses a series of exercises, prescribed by a physician, to rehab a specific area for a patient. A naprapath is a licensed doctor who will treat a patient then perhaps refer them to a PT for rehab.   

massage therapist ?

A massage therapist manipulates the muscles for tension relief.
A Naprapath may treat the muscles, but ultimately treats the underlying pathology with the ligaments. A Naprapath may treat a patient after a massage therapist; the underlying tissue is easier to manipulate after muscle surface tension is minimized. 

How long is a typical session ? 

A typical initial session lasts about an hour. Subsequent visits may be less. 

How many treatments do I need to have ?

That depends on how long you have had the pain and the severity of the problem. A treatment plan will be established after the initial evaluation so that you know what to expect.  

How should someone prepare for a session ?

Access to the entire back is necessary to evaluate and treat most conditions. 

Women: wear loose fitting shorts or sweat pants. We will provide you with an exam gown.

Men: Wear shorts or sweats; we will request that your shirt be removed prior to the exam.  An exam gown will be provided if requested.

Does insurance cover Naprapathic Treatments ?

A lot of insurance companies DO cover Naprapathy. We can help you with your insurance forms. We are a Blue Cross Blue Shield provider. Please check with your individual insurance plan prior to treatment.