In our modern times there seems to be a pill for everything.  Indeed modern medicine is extremely effective in saving lives and alleviating symptoms.  However, there is usually something a patient can do to change their life style and reduce the need for medication.  Dr. Duffy once had a patient in California with severe hypertension requiring several medications.  The man was also extremely overweight.  The patient was encouraged to lose weight.  For several months the patient disappeared.  When he returned he had lost 80 pounds.  His need for blood pressure medicine was reduced significantly.

At Metropolitan Hospital Dr. Duffy would include a personalized treatment plan as part of the electronic medical record for his patients.  Each patient received a printout at the end of the visit.

When patients participate in their own care they are asked to ponder the following questions:  What are the target symptoms?  What medication is helping?  What is the underlying cause of the symptoms?  What can I do in terms of diet, stress reduction, and exercise to help reduce factors contributing to my condition?

Several years ago Dr. Duffy himself was suffering from chronic back pain.  After reading Peter Egoscue’s book Pain Free he began the Egoscue Method exercise program.  When a patient has poor posture, some muscles work overtime to compensate for other underutilized muscles.  As a result of postural imbalance in one part of the body, other parts may develop chronic pain.  The Egoscue Method of exercise therapy helps restore the proper posture and alleviate pain.  Dr. Duffy has received training as a Posture Alignment Specialist from the Egoscue Method University.  He incorporates exercise therapy if indicated in his medical practice.

Self-Reliant Medicine means that patients are encouraged to depend more upon themselves in caring for their health.  All treatment must be individualized.  Individual goals are set.  “We work together to achieve these goals.”