What is Functional Medicine?
Great question! Functional medicine combines conventional medicine with complementary medicine.
Conventional medicine practitioners focus on treatment of symptoms and diseases with the use of drugs and surgery.
Complementary medicine incorporates alternative therapies and treatments, such as lifestyle changes, mind-body practices, dietary and herbal supplementation, and meditation among many other therapies to improve and optimize an individual’s quality of life.
What is the Goal of Functional Medicine?
The goal of functional medicine is to address the full range of physical, emotional, mental, social, spiritual and environmental factors that influence a person’s health. By combining the knowledge of conventional medicine with appropriate therapeutic and lifestyle interventions, integrative medicine takes a comprehensive approach to treat the whole person. Many find functional medicine appealing as it is focused on healing the individual, and holistic by nature.
These complementary therapies are not intended to replace conventional treatments, but rather are used in tandem to heal the body, mind and spirit.
Who is functional medicine for?
Functional medicine is for anyone interested in receiving detailed preventative health support, achieving individual goals, optimizing health, and uncovering the root cause of persistent health issues. We treat a range of conditions including:
- Digestive issues
- Mental wellbeing
- Hormonal health
- Metabolism support & weight loss
- Heart health
- Autoimmune & inflammatory issues
- Other unexplained symptoms
Many individuals are categorized as ‘healthy’ within the conventional model, but continue to experience ongoing and bothersome symptoms. Rather than taking a ‘one size fits all’ approach, we look at all factors unique to the individual and create a treatment plan specifically designed to address specific personal needs.
How does it work?
- Evaluation
Our integrative provider will sit down with you one-on-one for a lengthy initial evaluation, taking the time to fully understand your health history, symptoms, and lifestyle. During this time, you will have the opportunity to outline your top health concerns and goals you wish to address.
- Initial Care Plan and Testing
Following this appointment, our provider will give the patient an in-depth, individualized plan of care to address topics discussed, and determine what testing is appropriate for the patient. Unique from traditional care offices, our Integrative Medicine Program offers access to specialized advanced testing such as food sensitivities, hormone, thyroid micronutrient, mycotoxin, organic acids, GI-MAP, and many more.
- Test Results Review and Updated Plan of Care
Once the provider acquires the results of your tests, they will provide an in-depth review of the findings, and make recommendations accordingly giving the patient an updated plan of care. At this point, some patients require further/additional testing.
- Patient Follows Care-Plan
Next, the patient will follow instructions made by the provider by adapting daily routines and integrating various modalities, along with diet, exercise, and mindfulness practices.
- Provider/Coach Monitoring and Goal Achievements
Along the way through your health journey, our provider and coaches will guide you through the recommendations made, working toward achieving your goals. Expanding on your short term goals, our team will continue to provide guidance and support in achieving your long term goals.
