What is a naparapath?

A naprapath is a licensed Doctor of Naprapathy (D.N.) or naprapathic medicine. The word naprapathy (nah- prah - pathy) means "to correct suffering." It is derived from the Czech word napravit (to correct) and the Greek word pathos (suffering).

Naprapathic Medicine is a natural system of health care employing manual medicine, nutritional counseling and therapeutic modalities in the treatment of pain caused by connective tissue disorders.  Connective tissue supports the spinal column and all joints and articulations of the body.

Connective tissue disorders are characterized by abnormal rigid and/or contracted (strained) ligaments, tendons and muscles. This can lead to pain and inflammation to the affected area of the body.

 

Some of these disorders are:
Fibromyalgia                                         Shoulder pain
Joint pain                                              Spasms
Lower back                                            Sport injuries
Migraines                                              Sprain/Strains
Neck pain                                              TMJ
Repetitive motion Syndrome (RMS)          Tennis elbow
Siatica                                                  Whiplash

These connective tissue disorders are evaluated in various ways:

• Naprapathic examination of the spine
• Detailed medical history
• Standard orthopedic and neurological examinations
• Muscle and range of motion testing
• Use of MRI reports

Most importantly, naprapaths detect connective tissue and structural imbalances in the body using the most sensitive instrument in the world: their hands!

Naprapathic techniques include:

• Gentle manipulation of the vertebrae to stretch the attached, contracted connective tissue that may be irritating the nerves as they exit the spinal column.
• Manipulation/mobilization of the muscles and related soft tissues to help restore balance.
• Joint mobilization of restricted joints and articulations to restore full range of motion

Adjunctive therapies can include:

• Electro-therapy (including laser)
• Ultrasound
• Traction
• Therapeutic/rehabilitative exercises
• Orthopedic appliances and supports
• Nutritional Counseling
• Assessment of diet through case history and various clinical tests (e.g., nutritional blood work)
• The use of specific nutritional supplements including the use of herbal therapy
• Optimal recommendations for dietary and lifestyle changes

For those seeking to combat pain, poor nutrition and even stress, naprapathy is a completely natural system of health care that will meet your needs.

Naprapathy is not new. The National College of Naprapathic Medicine (NCNM) in Chicago has been in continuous operation since 1908. The full-time program at NCNM is four years in addition to an associate degree and includes a basic science curriculum, a naprapathic science curriculum and a full year of clinical practice.

Naprapathy is licensed in two states -- Illinois and New Mexico. Patrick Nuzzo, D.N. helped introduce the Naprapathic Practice Act of New Mexico in 2000 which got signed into law in 2004, making it possible for Naprapaths to practice in New Mexico. In 2006 Dr. Nuzzo was issued a license in New Mexico to open a Naprapathic college and grant the degrees Doctor of Naprapathic Medicine and Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition.