Naturopathic Medicine
What is Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is a regulated primary care discipline that combines conventional medical training with nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle-based medicine. In Alberta, naturopathic doctors complete a four-year accredited medical program after a science-based undergraduate degree, followed by licensing exams and ongoing continuing education requirements.
A naturopathic doctor takes a detailed health history, orders and interprets lab work, and builds an individualized treatment plan that may include nutrition, acupuncture, IV therapy, and other evidence-informed therapeutics. At Primaris, naturopathic care is integrated with the rest of your care team, so your naturopathic doctor works alongside your physician, dietitian, and other providers.
About Dr. Madison Thorne, ND
Dr. Madison Thorne is a licensed naturopathic doctor, with a background in women's hormonal health and athletic performance.
Dr. Thorne's path to naturopathic medicine started in kinesiology and personal training, where she worked directly with athletes navigating injuries, fatigue, and hormonal disruption that conventional sports medicine often missed. That background shapes how she practices today: a clinical approach that's direct, exercise-forward, and grounded in evidence-based treatment.
She holds a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and a Bachelor of Health Sciences from the University of British Columbia, with additional certifications in acupuncture and intravenous therapy.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Thorne is a dedicated runner, which keeps her clinical recommendations tested against her own training.
What is IV Therapy?
Intravenous (IV) therapy delivers vitamins, amino acids and minerals directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. For patients with documented deficiencies, malabsorption, or high stress and recovery demands, this route can deliver nutrients more directly than oral supplementation allows.
At Primaris, IV therapy is offered as part of an individualized treatment plan, not a standalone wellness add-on. Dr. Thorne reviews your health history and lab work before recommending a formulation, so IV therapy addresses a specific clinical need.
Common reasons patients pursue IV therapy include nutrient repletion, hydration support, and targeted support for deficiencies identified through testing. Sessions typically run 30 to 60 minutes depending on the formulation, and most patients tolerate treatment well.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. In a naturopathic setting, it's most often used alongside other therapies to manage pain, support stress regulation, and address symptoms related to hormonal and digestive health.
Many patients find acupuncture pairs well with the rest of their treatment plan. It carries a low risk of side effects, can ease pain and tension, and many notice improvements in sleep and stress levels after a few sessions.
A typical session runs 30 to 45 minutes. The needles are extremely fine, so most patients feel little more than a light pressure or tingling sensation rather than pain. Many describe sessions as deeply relaxing, often unwinding completely.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute personal medical advice. For assessment, diagnosis, or treatment, please consult a qualified clinician.