If you want to speak with a functional medicine provider before you contact our office, or if one of our colon hydrotherapists asks you to obtain a referral from a healthcare provider, here are some tips for getting the conversation started. When discussing a potential referral for a colonic procedure with a healthcare provider, it’s important to approach the conversation openly and honestly. Here are some tips to help guide your discussion:

1. Research beforehand: Educate yourself about colonic procedures, including their purpose, potential benefits, and contraindications. Familiarize yourself with reputable sources of information so that you can have an informed discussion with your doctor.
2. Be clear about your reasons: Clearly articulate why you are considering a colonic procedure. Whether it’s for constipation relief, bowel cleansing, or addressing specific symptoms, explain your concerns and desired outcomes.
3. Discuss previous attempts: If you’ve tried other methods to address your concerns, such as dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or medications, share this information with your doctor. Explain what you’ve tried and the results you’ve experienced so far.
4. Ask about alternative options: Inquire about alternative treatment options that your provider may recommend based on your specific situation. There may be other approaches that could be explored as an alternative or adjunct to a colonic procedure.
5. Discuss your medical history: Provide your doctor with a comprehensive overview of your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, surgeries, or relevant gastrointestinal issues. This information will help your doctor determine the suitability of a colonic procedure for you.
6. Request a referral: If you and your doctor agree that a colonic procedure may be appropriate, ask for your doctor to provide a referral for colonic services.

Remember, open communication and mutual understanding with your doctor are crucial. It’s important to have a collaborative discussion about your healthcare decisions and explore the best options for your individual needs.

Deciding if a colonic procedure is right for you involves careful consideration of several factors. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

1. Educate yourself: Learn about colonic procedures, their purpose, how they are performed, and potential contraindications. 
2. Evaluate your specific concerns: Assess your specific concerns or reasons for considering a colonic procedure. Are you seeking relief from constipation, exploring detoxification options, or addressing specific gastrointestinal symptoms? Consider the severity and duration of your symptoms and how they impact your quality of life.
3. Research alternative and complementary approaches: Explore alternative and complementary approaches that may be effective for your concerns. This could include enemas, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, supplements, medications, or other therapies. Discuss and weigh these options with your healthcare provider and/or one of our colon hydrotherapists.
4. Have an open conversation with a functional medicine provider to assess the benefits and contraindications associated with a colonic procedure. Assess how the potential benefits align with your goals and expectations. Healthcare providers who work in functional medicine, integrative health, or complementary healthcare are often more knowledgeable about colon hydrotherapy. Here are two providers in the Fort Collins Area who are knowledgeable about colon hydrotherapy:
   1. Dr. James Howton, DO 
   2. Dr. Jacqueline Fields, MD

If you have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Call 970-472-0995 to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly, certified colon hydrotherapists to find out if a colonic procedure is right for you.

The decision to have a colonic procedure is a personal one and should be made in consultation with your certified colon hydrotherapist. Colonic procedures are typically considered by people seeking complementary or alternative approaches for certain conditions. Colonic procedures are also sought after by people who are interested in detoxification and cleansing.  Here are some common situations where a colonic may be considered:

1. Bowel cleansing or preparation for a medical procedure: Colonics may be used as part of bowel cleansing protocols before certain medical procedures or surgeries, such as a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. This helps to empty the colon and improve visualization during the procedure.
2. Constipation: If you experience chronic constipation or have difficulty with regular bowel movements, a colonic procedure may be considered to help clear the colon and provide relief. However, it’s important to address the underlying causes of constipation and make lifestyle changes or seek appropriate medical care. 
3. Detoxification or cleansing: Some people may choose colonic procedures as a means of detoxification or cleansing the colon.  In his book The Swiss Secret to Optimal Health, Dr. Thomas Rau, M.D. describes colonic cleansing as a method that may clean out toxins, bad bacteria, and old putrid matter, boost the immune system, and create an intestinal environment that will support the development of beneficial bacteria.
4. Health and wellness: A colonic procedure may be considered by individuals who are focused on maintaining their overall health and wellness. 

While colon hydrotherapy is generally regarded as a safe and gentle procedure, It’s important to note that colonic procedures are not suitable for everyone. People with certain health conditions, such as colitis, diverticulitis, severe hemorrhoids, or recent bowel surgery, may be advised against having a colonic. 

You should always consult with a certified colon hydrotherapist to determine whether a colonic procedure is appropriate for you and discuss any potential contraindications based on your individual health history.

Call us at 970-472-0995 to schedule a consultation with one of our certified colon hydrotherapists to find out if a colonic procedure is right for you.

Colon hydrotherapy, also known as colonic irrigation, colon cleansing, or colonic cleansing is a procedure that involves flushing the colon with a gentle stream of purified water to remove waste material and potentially improve bowel function and an overall sense of wellbeing. Colon hydrotherapy is performed at Living Arts Wellness by certified colon hydrotherapists at our Fort Collins wellness centers in Old Town and Midtown.  

Here are some key aspects of colon hydrotherapy:

1. Purpose: The primary goal of colon hydrotherapy is to cleanse the colon by removing accumulated waste material, toxins, and gas. Proponents of the procedure believe that it may help alleviate symptoms such as constipation, bloating, and digestive discomfort.
2. Procedure: During a colon hydrotherapy session at Living Arts Wellness, you will lie on your back on the treatment table, and an FDA-regulated instrument will be used to introduce filtered and temperature-regulated water into your colon through a tube inserted into the rectum. The water is gently introduced and then released, along with waste material, into a waste disposal system.

• Colonic Instrument: The instrument used for colon hydrotherapy at Living Arts Wellness is a closed system. Closed systems use an instrument that controls water pressure and temperature. Living Arts Wellness colon hydrotherapists use the Aqua Cleanse colon irrigation system because of its enhanced safety features. The Aqua Cleanse system has the following safety features:
  • Three-Stage Filtration to  removes impurities from the water before it reaches your colon
  • A medical grade sanitizing system to thoroughly clean the system between each client. We also use a new disposable, sanitized, factory-sealed tubing for each client.
  • Pressure and temperature gauges which are monitored by your colon hydrotherapist during the colonic session.
• Hygiene and Safety: Your health, safety, and comfort are of the utmost importance. Our colonic procedures are conducted with strict adherence to hygiene and safety practices. This includes sterilizing the colonic instrument, using disposable tubing, and following infection control protocols. We take these steps to ensure a clean and safe environment.
• Professional Training: Colon hydrotherapy services are performed at Living Arts Wellness by trained professionals who have experience in the procedure.  Our therapists are certified by the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapists (I-ACT). They will guide you through the process, monitor your comfort and safety, and provide any necessary post-procedure care instructions.  
• Precautions and Contraindications: While colon hydrotherapy is generally regarded as a safe and gentle procedure, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is generally not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions such as severe diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, severe hemorrhoids, or recent colon or rectal surgery. You may wish to discuss your medical history and any concerns with your healthcare provider before considering colon hydrotherapy. Call us at 970-472-0995 to schedule a consultation with one of our certified colon hydrotherapists to find out if a colonic procedure is right for you.

It is important to note that colon hydrotherapy is more historical and intuitive than scientific as scientific studies are needed to validate the effectiveness of this therapy. However, good sense indicates hydration of the body through a large intestine can enhance the health of the individual. This started thousands of years ago with a simple enema and has evolved into the present day colonic. Many people simply report they feel better after a colonic, maybe due to hydration by osmosis or the release of bowel contents.