Naprapathy: Pain Relief's Best Kept Secret

Though you may not have heard of this alternative treatment, Naprapathy is rapidly growing in popularity. This is thanks to the enthusiastic recommendations of those who've experienced pain relief therapy at the hands of a Naprapath.

The Czech word "naprapravit" (to correct) and the Greek word "pathos" (suffering) combine to form the word Naprapathy. This treatment method "corrects suffering" through manual manipulation of inelastic connective tissue which may be irritating the nervous system and causing pain.

Dr. Oakley Smith, the first Naprapath, founded the science of Naprapathy in 1907 after devising a systematic treatment method of evaluating and healing damaged connective tissues. He discovered that structural imbalances (often situated in the spine) were sources of pain which can build slowly and spread throughout the body.

The cause of such imbalances, which deplete the suppleness of connective tissue, include poor posture, trauma (whiplash and sports injuries) and general wear. Naprapathy teaches that, over time, the resulting stiffness can produce pinched nerves. These trigger chronic conditions like back pain, migraine headaches and the kind of joint pain often attributed to arthritis.

In Naprapathy, treatment begins with a medical case history and a spinal examination to identify the precise location of pain. Therapy includes manual manipulations designed to stretch specific connective tissues, improve structural alignment and provide pain relief.

Besides manual manipulation, Doctors of Naprapathy (DN) may also use ultrasound, electrical, heat, and cold pain relief treatment methods.

Naprapathy's philosophy of restoring the body's natural balance extends to posture counseling and correcting dietary deficiencies. In the later case, a Naprapath will provide nutritional counseling.

The practice of Naprapathy is presently licensed in the state of Illinois. Click below to find a Naprapath near you.