Chronic Health Conditions

Approach Your Chronic Condition in a New Way

There are many factors that contribute to chronic health problems: genetic, lifestyle factors, nutrient levels, stress, and toxic exposures to name a few.  We help empower patients to understand and treat their chronic health condition safely and effectively in a more holistic way. Whether you have been diagnosed with diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, autoimmune disease, arthritis, or any number of inflammatory, neurologic, rheumatologic, or dermatologic conditions, we can help support your body toward wellness. 

Can naturopathic medicine help all chronic health conditions?

Yes, mostly!  Not all chronic health conditions can be healed entirely, and many will need co-management with a specialist.  But most conditions are multi-factorial and will benefit from correcting underlying nutrient deficiencies, hormone balances, and treatable causes of inflammation.  Many are affected by the gut microbiome.  And certainly, most are impacted heavily by nutrition, exercise, and stress.  A comprehensive assessment of these factors, and a strategic treatment plan that optimizes your underlying wellness can often improve symptoms, quality of life, and outcomes.  We are also experts at which nutritional supplements have the best research and outcomes for your condition so we can safely optimize your treatment in conjunction with any necessary medications. 

Common Conditions Treated

Diabetes • High Cholesterol • High Blood Pressure • Autoimmune Disease • Arthritis • Inflammatory Conditions • Neurologic Conditions • Rheumatologic Conditions • Dermatologic Conditions • and more

Our Diagnostic Process

  • Initial doctor visit to learn more about your current symptoms, health history, what prior testing and treatment have been done, and current diet and lifestyle factors.

  • At the initial visit the doctor will recommend any additional testing that can help uncover the cause of your symptoms. This can include functional lab work for nutrient levels, hormones, inflammation, and metabolic problems. It may also include digestive function testing, food sensitivity testing, environmental toxicity testing, and/or imaging.

  • When all additional testing has been completed, we meet again to review results, determine the cause(s) of the problem, and discuss a detailed and strategic treatment plan to address the findings. Due to the more comprehensive nature of testing, we often identify additional health markers that are out of balance and will make recommendations on those items as well.

  • Treatment may include nutritional supplement recommendations, prescription medications, diet recommendations (both temporary and long-term), exercise recommendations, stress management strategies, and possibly referrals to other specialists or providers for ancillary care or further evaluation.

  • Our ongoing commitment to your health incorporates an adaptable care plan based on progress, follow-up testing, and general wellness strategies to ensure and sustain your optimal health.

“Spark Health is like an oasis. The staff, the doctors, the ambiance all make you feel calm and cared for. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to take their health to the next level.”

Emily E. from Encinitas, CA

“Professional doesn't come close to describing the Spark Health team. My family depends upon the expertise of the entire office of dedicated experts. From the moment you enter the office, you feel the caring vibe and it is simply exemplified when interacting with the Doctor.”

Jim C. from La Jolla, CA

 FAQs

  • Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that combines traditional healing methods with modern medical science. It focuses on natural remedies and the body's inherent ability to heal and maintain itself. Naturopathic doctors aim to treat the underlying cause of illness rather than just the symptoms, using various therapies including dietary changes, herbal medicine, lifestyle adjustments, and more.

  • Naturopathic medicine offers a personalized approach to health, addressing the root causes of chronic conditions such as inflammation, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and lifestyle factors. By developing a tailored treatment plan, naturopathic doctors aim to improve your body’s natural healing abilities, reduce symptoms, enhance wellness, and potentially reverse chronic conditions.

  • Yes, when practiced by a licensed naturopathic doctor, naturopathic medicine is safe. These professionals undergo rigorous training in natural therapies as well as basic medical sciences. However, it's important to communicate with your naturopathic doctor about all treatments you're receiving to ensure they complement any conventional treatments safely.

  • Naturopathic medicine can be used alongside conventional treatments, offering a complementary approach. In some cases, natural therapies may reduce the need for certain medications or procedures, but it should not replace conventional medical treatment without a thorough discussion with both your naturopathic and conventional healthcare providers.

  • Your first appointment will typically be longer than a conventional medical visit, often lasting about an hour. Your naturopathic doctor will take a comprehensive health history, ask about your diet, stress levels, lifestyle, and discuss your symptoms. They may also perform a physical exam and recommend diagnostic tests. The goal is to gain a holistic understanding of your health to develop a personalized treatment plan.

  • The time frame to see improvements can vary widely depending on the individual and their condition. Some people may notice changes within a few weeks, while others might take months. Naturopathic medicine often focuses on long-term health and wellness, so patience and consistency with the treatment plan are important.

  • Coverage for naturopathic medicine varies by insurance company and plan. Some insurance plans do cover naturopathic treatments, but others may not. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered under your plan.  We can often use your existing insurance to cover the cost of some or all of the lab testing.