Featured Naturopathic Doctor in
Oakville
 Dr.
Samantha Ristimaki, BSc, ND
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Clinic: Wellness
for the Body
Dr. Ristimaki is a licensed and registered Naturopathic
doctor with a degree from the University of Guelph in
Nutrition and Nutraceuticals and a four year degree
from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.
The cornerstone of her practice is nutrition but she
uses her experience in botanical medicine, Traditional
Chinese medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy and lifestyle
counseling to create an integrated health plan to suit
her patients individual needs.
She specialized in the treatment of acute and chronic
health concerns including digestive complaints, hormonal
imbalances, fatigue and autoimmune conditions. She has
designed specific programs for detoxification, stress
management and healthy aging. She also works with women’s
health concerns such as infertility, period problems
and menopause.
The pursuit of the highest quality care also lead
her to obtain additional certifications in Intravenous
(IV) vitamin and nutrient therapy, perinatal care, cosmetic
acupuncture and facial rejuvenation.
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Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic medicine is a primary health care system that
blends the knowledge of modern diagnostic medicine with traditional
and natural forms of medicine. Naturopathic doctors help to
restore and maintain optimum health by addressing the physiological,
psychological, spiritual, environmental and lifestyle factors
affecting health. The primary goal is to determine the root
cause of the problem and base a treatment upon the individual
rather that the disease.
Naturopathic doctors provide integrated care and cooperative
with all branches of medicine by referring patients to other
practitioners as needed.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Health History
The initial intake is usually at least 60 minutes in duration
during which a detailed health history is taken.
Nutritional Assessment
Understanding the food you eat on a regular basis is an integral
part of understanding the factors that affect your health.
Eating habits, nutritional status and the types of foods you
eat help to determine the body’s ability to handle certain
foods and the overall impact diet is having on your health.
Physical Examination
Naturopathic doctors are trained the same way that conventional
medical doctors are to perform physical examinations. These
examinations provide critical information for the diagnosis
and treatment of your health concerns. Naturopaths take the
time to address small symptoms before they become big health
problems.
Chinese Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis
Naturopathic doctors are also trained in the art of traditional
Chinese medicine. The tongue and pulse diagnosis gives further
insight in to the case and allow the patient to have additional
treatment options.
Comprehensive Laboratory Analysis
Laboratory testing including blood, urine, saliva, hair and
stool for a complete medical assessment. Standardized laboratory
testing provides further information for a comprehensive assessment.
Previous Medical Records and Diagnostic
Testing
Medical reports such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI’s and
blood tests are an important for completely understanding
a case. Referrals to other medical practitioners are made
in order to ensure all the proper tests are obtained to ensure
the highest quality of care.
Therapies
Clinical nutrition
Botanical medicine
Homeopathic medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine
Acupuncture
Lifestyle Counseling
Some naturopathic doctors will have additional training
in IV therapy.
Training & Regulation
Naturopathic doctors undergo similar training as medical
doctors and the additional training in natural treatment therapies
and clinical practice experience. A university degree must
be completed prior to the 4 years of naturopathic training.
Registered naturopathic doctors are required to pass north
American standardized board examinations and obtain continuing
education credits on an ongoing basis in order to maintain
a license. |
