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NATUROPATHIC SERVICES IN HUNTSVILLE, MUSKOKA
All treatment plans are individualized and typically involve a combination of these services. The initial plan and treatment direction is based on my assessment and your goals. I make sure that my recommendations are safe to take with your medications.
BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE RESTORATION THERAPY (BHRT)
I have obtained additional certification which allows me to prescribe topical and vaginal suppositories of estriol/estradiol, topical progesterone, and dessicated thyroid. There are many applications of BHRT including: hot flashes, insomnia, PMS, vaginal dryness, low libido, painful intercourse, anxiety, etc. My assessment of hormone status is based on hormone questionnaire, signs and symptoms, and laboratory testing.
BOTANICAL MEDICINE
Plant power! Botanical medicine involves the use of herbs for their medicinal properties. Each herb has many different actions, and choosing one that is best suited for a patient is a true art. Selection is based on traditional use as well as modern research. Herbs can be prescribed in different forms - tea, tinctures, and capsules.
FUNCTIONAL TESTING
This includes a variety of different types of lab testing. Note, these aren't covered by OHIP but some insurance plans provide coverage. For example, tests include: full thyroid panels (blood), Organic acids test (urine), Food Sensitivity Testing (blood), SIBO Testing (breath), Comprehensive Stool Analysis (stool), etc. Functional testing can help guide treatment and provide answers to unexplained symptoms or health concerns.
DIETARY COUNSELLING
"Let food be thy medicine" - right? Diet will be explored and thoroughly assessed during initial appointments to assess nutritional status, digestion/absorption function, and adequate intake of fibre, protein, healthy fats, etc. Counselling includes support with meal planning, timing of meals, and recommendations for specific foods to incorporate (and possibly limit.) In some cases, food sensitivity testing may be warranted, and different options will be discussed.
ACUPUNCTURE
Although more commonly known for it's ability to reduce stress and pain, acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of other conditions such as IBS, peripheral neuropathy, fertility, insomnia, etc. Individualized acupuncture treatments are chosen based on Traditional Chinese Medicine. Electroacupuncture is a variation of treatment that can be used when indicated.
CUPPING
A.k.a myofascial decompression. Negative pressure used by cupping creates ‘lift,’ which creates space between fascia and muscle – allowing adequate blood delivery to soft tissue and the removal of waste. When fascia and muscle sticks together, it can form adhesions, which can create pain, stiffness, and immobility. I use cupping to treat: sciatica, fibromyalgia, tension headaches, constipation, low back pain, athlete care, and to promote relaxation.
VITAMIN B12 SHOTS
B12 injections are preservative-free, in the form of methylcobalamin. The methyl group has health benefits in itself, by supporting methylation- a technique the body uses to eliminate waste products and metabolites. B12 shots can be used to replete deficiency, support mood/anxiety, increase energy, support memory, and brain health.
SUPPLEMENTATION
During initial appointments, an assessment will be made to look for: signs of nutrient deficiencies, nutrients that may be depleted by medications, conditions that could benefit from supplementation, nutrients that are needed in larger amounts during specific circumstances (ex. during pregnancy, stress, post-surgery, etc.), and/or nutrients to optimize health. Essentially, Michelle answers the common question: "What supplements should I take?"
LIFESTYLE COUNSELLING
This includes a variety of techniques that can be incorporated into daily life that can help you get through your day. Factors affecting health like stress, mood, sleep, social support and activity level will be explored. Example of interventions include: education on sleep hygiene, mindfulness-based stress reduction, discussing new apps, visualization exercises, and finding ways to increase movement/daily exercise.
Are you looking for more detail or still unsure if these services are right for you? Book a complimentary 15min visit and we can discuss further.