Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Schlee Natural Medicine
- Herniated Disc Treatment
- Sciatica & Disc Treatment
- General
- IV Therapy
- Myers Cocktail
- Ozone Injection Therapy
- Ozone Therapy
- Regenerative Injection
- Adjunctive Cancer Care
Yes. Adjunctive cancer care can be supportive before, during, and after conventional treatment, as well as during remission. Some patients also seek care when conventional options have been completed or are no longer effective, with a focus on comfort, quality of life, and overall support.
Yes. When sciatica is caused by a bulging or herniated disc irritating a nerve root, regenerative injection therapy may help reduce inflammation and disc-related pressure. Some patients experience improvements in pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness associated with sciatica.
Regenerative injection therapy works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response. Prolotherapy encourages collagen production and strengthens ligaments and supportive tissues, while ozone is thought to support inflammatory balance, improve oxygen delivery, and influence local swelling near the affected disc. Together, these effects may reduce disc-related pressure on nearby nerves. As with any intervention, results can vary, and treatment is most effective when tailored to the individual and used within a comprehensive care plan.
Regenerative Injection Therapy (RIT) for a herniated disc utilizes targeted injections – most are a combination of prolotherapy and ozone – to support inflammatory balance, encourage tissue repair, and strengthen the structures around the affected disc. This approach aims to reduce nerve irritation, improve spinal stability, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Coverage may vary depending on your insurance provider and plan. However, many extended health benefits do include coverage for naturopathic medical services. Our team can help guide you through billing and documentation questions and processes.
A referral is often not required. An initial consultation allows us to determine whether adjunctive therapies may be appropriate for your health journey and how they can best fit alongside your current medical care.
Your first visit is a thorough and supportive consultation. We take time to understand your diagnosis, prognosis (if applicable), treatments, symptoms, concerns, and health goals. We review all medications and supplements you may be taking, discuss possible supportive therapies, and outline a personalized plan designed to complement your existing care so that you have the support you need.
Adjunctive cancer care is intended to complement conventional oncology treatment. It supports the body during therapy, promotes recovery, and helps maintain quality of life, allowing patients to actively participate in their overall care.
Many individuals living with cancer may be eligible, regardless of diagnosis or stage. Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive consultation that reviews your health history, current treatments, medications, and personal goals. Safety and appropriateness are always the top priority.
Yes. When patients choose, we are happy to collaborate with oncologists, medical doctors, nutritionists, counsellors, and other healthcare providers. A coordinated approach helps ensure that care is safe, complementary, and aligned with your overall treatment plan.
No. Regenerative injection therapy is a non-surgical treatment option and is often considered before any invasive interventions like surgery. It is not intended to replace surgery when that is medically necessary; however, it can help some patients manage symptoms and potentially avoid or delay surgical procedures while supporting tissue strength and function.
When administered appropriately and under medical supervision, high-dose vitamin C IV therapy is generally well tolerated. Prior to treatment, patients are carefully screened to ensure safety, including assessment of kidney function and other relevant factors. Treatment recommendations are always individualized.
IV therapy has long been used alongside conventional cancer treatments. By delivering nutrients and supportive compounds directly into the bloodstream, it allows for higher doses than oral intake alone, which can be useful when absorption is compromised or elevated levels are clinically appropriate.
IV therapies are commonly employed to deliver essential nutrients, support hydration, support immune function, and promote overall resilience throughout cancer treatment.
Adjunctive cancer care may be considered for a variety of cancer types, including breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, gynecological, hematologic (such as leukemia and lymphoma), and skin cancers, among others. Recommendations are always tailored to your individual diagnosis, prognosis, treatment plan, medical history, and overall health goals throughout your care journey.
Adjunctive cancer care is often used to support your body’s tolerance and recovery ability during conventional treatment. Patients typically seek out these therapies to address symptoms including persistent fatigue, weakness, nausea, and appetite changes. Responses to this method of care may vary from person to person as each individual’s cancer journey is unique, and therefore this care is tailored to your specific needs and treatment stage.
Many patients seek adjunctive care to help manage the mental, emotional and physical challenges that can come with cancer treatment. This may include support for fatigue, immune function, hydration, appetite, inflammation, stress, and overall well-being. Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation place significant demands on the body, making individualized care plans an important component of comprehensive support.
No. Adjunctive cancer care is not considered a replacement for conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or immunotherapy. It is intended to support the body before, during, and after treatment, working in coordination with your oncology team when appropriate to ensure safety and continuity of integrative care.
Adjunctive cancer care refers to supportive, evidence-informed therapies used alongside conventional cancer treatments, or as supportive care before or after treatment. The goal is to help the body manage the physical, mental and emotional demands of cancer and its treatments, support overall resilience, and improve quality of life. These therapies complement oncology care, working in tandem to support the patient’s health and well-being.
Because the rejuvenating nutrients of IV Therapy are delivered directly to the bloodstream, you will receive 100% of the benefits. Patients typically notice the effects of IV Therapy within an hour of treatment.
If you are new to Dr. Schlee Naturopathic Clinic, have not seen a Naturopathic Doctor before or it has been more than a year since your last Naturopathic visit, you will need to book an appointment so we can conduct a proper assessment.
During this time, we will meet and obtain a detailed assessment of your history, health concerns, and goals, and run any necessary tests (such as urine samples – if appropriate). This will help us to determine which treatments are safe and suitable for you and your body.
Great question! Ozone injections are administered locally near the affected disc or surrounding spinal structures to pinpoint a specific area of concern or discomfort.
Ozone IV therapy, on the other hand, is delivered straight into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, and is thought to support processes such as oxygen utilization, circulation, and aspects of immune function. Your healthcare provider will determine which approach – or combination – is most appropriate for your current health situation.
Absolutely! Ozone therapy is often used as part of a holistic treatment plan. This may include lifestyle recommendations, supplement or nutritional support, physical therapies, or other naturopathic modalities to support your long-term healing process and overall health.
Ozone therapy generally requires little to no downtime. Some patients may experience some mild soreness in the treated area or some fatigue temporarily as the body activates its healing abilities, but serious complications are uncommon. Dr. Schlee will provide you with personalized aftercare guidance as well.
After the initial consult or assessment is completed and we have a full picture of what your current challenge is, ozone therapy is then administered in a clinical setting. This procedure is minimally invasive and typically a quick appointment. Though each person is different, most of our patients are able to continue on with their normal daily activities shortly after treatment.
Patients experiencing sciatica or disc-related pain who are seeking a non-surgical, outpatient treatment option may be ideal candidates for this treatment. We always begin with a detailed consultation, which is required to review your medical history, imaging (if available), current symptoms, and treatment goals for a more detailed and informed approach.
Ozone therapy may be considered for conditions such as:
- Sciatica
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Chronic lower back pain
- Disc-related nerve irritation
Each treatment plan is individualized based on a thorough assessment.
The number of treatments truly depends on the severity of each individual patient’s symptoms, the nature of the disc issue, and each individual’s healing response. Many patients tend to notice improvement after only a few sessions, while others may benefit from a short series of treatments as part of a comprehensive and holistic care plan.
When administered by trained and certified practitioners using medical-grade equipment, ozone therapy is generally considered to have a favourable safety profile. At Dr. Schlee’s Naturopathic Clinic, all treatments are performed following strict clinical protocols to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Some patients choose ozone therapy as an early or conservative treatment option to help manage symptoms and potentially avoid or delay surgery. Outcomes vary from person to person, and results depend on factors such as disc severity, overall health, and lifestyle.
No. Ozone therapy is a non-surgical and non-steroidal injectable treatment option. It does not involve removing any disc material or injecting steroids into the body. While it may be considered as an alternative before pursuing invasive treatments, it is not intended to replace surgery when it is medically necessary.
IV Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Dr. Schlee Naturopathic Clinic, we offer a range of IV options – including immune support, energy/metabolic blends, vitamin/mineral repletion, and the ever-popular Myers Cocktail for an overall vitality boost. Your formula will be customized based on your symptoms, lab results, and overall health goals after a full consultation.
Ozone therapy is thought to help improve oxygen delivery to the affected area and support the body’s natural inflammatory response. In addition, research suggests it may also help reduce disc volume in certain cases, which can relieve pressure on irritated nerves. As with any intervention, results can vary, and treatment is most effective when tailored to the individual and used within a comprehensive care plan.
Ozone therapy uses a carefully controlled mixture of medical-grade oxygen and ozone to support the body’s natural healing processes. In the context of sciatica and disc-related pain, ozone may be used as a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment to help support inflammatory balance, improve tissue oxygenation, and support pain relief.
Yes. Regenerative injection therapy is often a piece of a comprehensive naturopathic care plan that may include lifestyle guidance, physical rehabilitation, nutritional support, or other complementary therapies to aid in long-term spinal health.
Some patients find they may require less pain medication as treatment progresses and the body continues to heal. In fact, some may not need additional pain management beyond regenerative injections at all. However, each individual’s experience may vary, and medication use should always be discussed with your healthcare team to ensure you have the most effective support.
Diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, is often very helpful in confirming the presence and severity of a herniated disc. While imaging is not always required to begin your care, it can assist in treatment planning to give a more detailed look and inform your practitioner of whether regenerative injections are appropriate for your unique health circumstance.
When administered by trained and experienced practitioners in a clinical setting, regenerative injection therapy is generally considered to have a favourable safety profile. At Dr. Schlee’s Naturopathic Clinic, all injections are provided using evidence-informed protocols to ensure safety and patient comfort.
Patients with confirmed bulging or herniated discs who are seeking a non-surgical treatment option may be ideal candidates. Following a comprehensive consultation (including medical history, a symptoms review, and diagnostic imaging when available), we can then determine whether this treatment is suitable for your specific health situation.
Some commonly reported benefits include:
- Minimally invasive, non-surgical care
- Reduced pain and nerve irritation
- Improved spinal stability and function
- Minimal side effects, typically limited to short-lived local discomfort
- Faster recovery times compared to more invasive treatments
While each individual may respond differently depending on their situation, many patients report improvement within a series of approximately 4–6 weekly or semi-weekly treatments as the body begins to heal. The exact number of sessions truly depends on factors such as disc severity, overall health, lifestyle, and how the body responds to this specific treatment.
Many people can benefit from IV Therapy, including those struggling with constant low energy, weakened immunity, frequent illnesses, poor nutrient absorption, chronic stress, or inflammatory conditions. It’s also incredible for athletes, busy professionals, anyone who finds they use up more of their resources than they get back, or who is looking to optimize their wellness. Your individual needs will be assessed during a naturopathic consultation before beginning treatment.
In most cases, no special preparation is needed before RIT. However, we may recommend certain precautions or considerations pertaining to medications before the procedure. It’s essential to follow any pre-procedure instructions provided.
Results may vary for each patient, however many individuals experience improvement within a few weeks to months after starting a treatment plan involving Regenerative Injection Therapy. The healing process continues over time, with progressive improvement in symptoms corresponding to healing and recovery.
During an RIT session, we assess your health concerns and medical history. We then administer the injections according to objective information, referred pain patterns and best practices. The procedure is usually well-tolerated and performed on an outpatient basis.
RIT can treat many conditions, such as tendonitis, ligament injuries, osteoarthritis, muscle strains, and joint pain. It’s particularly effective for chronic conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments.
The benefits of ozone therapy include:
- Strengthening your respiratory system.
- Inactivating bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and yeast.
- Modulating your immune system.
- Improving your circulatory system by cleaning arteries and veins.
It’s important to discuss all medications and supplements you’re currently taking with your healthcare provider before starting ozone therapy. In some cases, adjustments may be required to ensure the effective use of these therapies.
The length of an ozone therapy session can vary depending on the method of administration and the individual’s specific health needs. For more accurate information, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider.
The cost can vary depending on the type of therapy being administered. For specific pricing information, it’s best to contact Dr. Schlee’s clinic directly.
Ozone therapy can be used to improve oxygenation of the body, in addition to modulating the immune system. Within the context of systemic treatment, there is a pro-oxidative function with ozone as well, serving to eliminate microorganisms such as viruses or bacteria. Ozone can be used to treat conditions such as acute and chronic infections (Lyme Disease, for instance), Diabetes, circulatory issues, and wounds.
For orthopedic or physical ailments, ozone may be beneficial in treating degenerative joints and discs, arthritis, and bulging or herniated discs.
Yes, Regenerative Injection Therapy (RIT) has shown promising results in treating degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis. By promoting tissue repair and regeneration, RIT can help relieve pain while improving joint function in arthritic joints.
Frequency depends on your health goals and current condition. For example, some patients may need weekly sessions for 3-6 weeks during active treatment phases for acute or chronic ailments, while others may benefit from monthly sessions for health maintenance and prevention. Some patients may come in ‘as needed’ depending on season, health or life challenges. Our naturopathic team will create a personalized treatment plan that’s safe and effective for your specific needs.
IV Therapy may help support a variety of acute and chronic health concerns, including:
- Low immunity and frequent infections
- Migraines and headaches
- Chronic fatigue and burnout
- Allergies or asthma
- Hormonal imbalances
- Adrenal fatigue
- Gut disorders like Crohn’s or IBS
- Detoxification from environmental or lifestyle toxins
- Post-viral recovery
- Nutrient depletion from stress, diet, or medications
IV (Intravenous) Therapy involves delivering essential and replenishing vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream via a small needle and IV line. This method bypasses the digestive system, allowing for 100% absorption at the cellular level. It’s an excellent solution for anyone needing rapid rehydration, nutrient support, or immune system reinforcement – especially when oral supplements aren’t sufficient.
While oral supplements have to pass through the digestive tract – where absorption can be limited – IV Therapy delivers nutrients directly to your bloodstream. This ensures faster and more efficient uptake by your cells and tissues. It can be particularly helpful for people with any digestive disorders, those experiencing chronic fatigue, battling nutrient malabsorption, or suffering from acute illness.
At our clinic, we are able to provide a myriad of laboratory evaluations, including blood work (via provincial laboratories), allergy testing, food sensitivity testing, comprehensive digestive analysis, advanced hormone testing, functional neurotransmitter testing, toxic metal analysis, advanced nutrient evaluations, and more.
While Dr. Schlee’s clinic doesn’t directly bill insurance companies, they can provide you with an invoice you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, depending on your policy.
Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm.
Saturday & Sunday – Closed
During your first visit, Dr. Schlee will spend time discussing your health history, as well as understanding your current and historical health concerns. Additionally, discussions around lifestyle, diet, and stress factors may also occur. After this, he will then create a personalized treatment plan that to best address your health needs.
You can book an appointment online through the website or by contacting the clinic directly.
For questions or to book an appointment, you can reach us at 403-301-7406.
For inquiries about services, you can reach us at 587-888-1175.
It depends on the condition we’re treating and how your body responds. Some patients notice changes after just 2-4 sessions, while more chronic or complex concerns may take 6–10 sessions. In certain cases, ongoing maintenance treatments are recommended to support long-term stability and healing, depending on the severity of the condition.
Yes! New patients are welcome at Dr. Schlee’s Calgary clinic. However, all new patients must first book an Initial Naturopathic Consultation to ensure IV Therapy is right for them. During this session, we review your health history, assess your current concerns, and create a customized treatment plan to help you along your healing journey. *Note: Any patients with chronic liver, heart or kidney disease are encouraged to have an initial naturopathic consultation first with Dr. Schlee to determine if they can receive IV therapy and that it does not interfere with any medication or other treatments.
Once your personalized IV formula is prepared, a very small needle is gently inserted into your vein – most patients say it’s less noticeable than a regular blood draw. You’ll relax in a comfortable setting while the IV drips, on average between 30-60 minutes. Many patients report feeling more energized, clear-headed, or even calm after their treatment.
Before your appointment, eat a light meal and drink at least 1-2 glasses of water to support stable blood pressure. Bring a list of current supplements and medications so that we’re up to speed on your current health practices. Wear comfortable clothing and plan for some relaxation – many patients like to bring a book, listen to a podcast, or enjoy some music during their 30-45 minute session.
IV Therapy is generally very safe when administered by trained professionals, like our Naturopathic Doctors, Registered Nurses, and other practitioners. Mild side effects can include bruising at the needle site, a feeling of warmth, or lightheadedness if not well hydrated. We always conduct a pre-treatment assessment and monitor you during your session to ensure your safety and comfort.
Yes. Ozone therapy often works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Depending on your needs, it may be combined with other regenerative injections, physiotherapy, IV therapy, or lifestyle recommendations to maximize your recovery and long-term results.
Recovery is usually quick. Many patients return to their normal activities on the same day, although we may suggest avoiding strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours to allow your body time to recover. The healing process itself progresses gradually over the days and weeks following treatment.
Yes. Many patients come to us after trying other pain management or rehabilitation approaches without lasting success. Ozone therapy works differently – it helps to stimulate the body’s own healing processes rather than just masking symptoms, making it a valuable option when traditional methods haven’t provided relief.
While many people can benefit from ozone therapy, there are a few exceptions. It’s not typically recommended for individuals with specific thyroid conditions, G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency, or active bleeding disorders. That’s why a careful review of your health history is an important part of your first visit.
Yes. When performed by a trained physician, ozone therapy is generally considered safe with minimal side effects. At Dr. Schlee’s clinic, we always complete a thorough assessment before treatment to ensure it’s appropriate for you and to minimize any potential risks.
Dr. Schlee’s Naturopathic Clinic is located at Suite 529B, 10333 Southport Road SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2W 3X6. For more details, visit our contact page.
Side effects are rare, but there are risks with any medical procedure. These may include mild discomfort at the injection site or a temporary feeling of warmth during the infusion. These are typically short-lived. Please contact our clinic for guidance if you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms.
The frequency of treatment varies depending on your health goals and the conditions you’re addressing. Some individuals opt for a session once a week for ongoing wellness support, while others may choose it as needed to address specific concerns like fatigue or stress. Dr. Schlee will work with you on a personalized plan based on your needs.
Yes, the Myers Cocktail IV Therapy is generally safe when administered by a qualified healthcare professional. Our team ensures that each treatment is tailored to your unique needs. We also monitor your health throughout the process to minimize any risks.
Many patients report feeling better almost immediately after their infusion. They feel more energized and hydrated and have improved mental clarity and mood. However, results may vary depending on numerous health factors, and is best discussed with your provider prior to treatment.
When ozone is added to the blood, it also affects immune cells (white blood cells). Ozone increases the chemicals that immune cells use to communicate with each other. IL-6, IL-12, and IFN are all increased. The stimulated chemicals communicate and may rebalance the immune system after the blood is reinfused.
While Ozone Therapy is generally safe, it may not be suitable for some individuals. Pregnant women, individuals with severe blood clotting disorders, or those with a history of ozone sensitivity may not be good candidates for this therapy. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Ozone Therapy is appropriate for you.
The timeline for experiencing results from Ozone Therapy can vary depending on the individual’s condition, treatment protocol, and response to therapy. Some patients may notice improvements after one session, while others may need several sessions before significant reduction in symptoms are observed.
The cost of Regenerative Injection Therapy (RIT) in Calgary can vary depending on the type of treatment, the number of sessions required, the healthcare provider’s experience, and the specific clinic or facility where the procedure is performed.
For Questions or To Book An Appointment
Phone: 403-301-7406
For Inquiries About Services
Phone: 587-888-1175
Clinic hours
Monday – Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
Located at the Paradigm Health Group
Suite 529B, 10333 Southport Road SW
Calgary, Alberta, T2W 3X6