What is Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-biology approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. Functional medicine addresses the whole person, their story and experiences and not just an isolated set of symptoms.
Functional medicine practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, diet, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. At the core of the practice of functional medicine, is the understanding that each patient is unique and requires a personalized approach to reach their peak expression of health and vitality
Core Principles of Functional Medicine
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Understanding
An understanding of the biochemical individuality of each human being, based on the concepts of genetic and environmental uniqueness.
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Awareness
Awareness of the evidence that supports a patient-centered rather than a disease-centered approach to treatment
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Balance
Search for a dynamic balance among the internal and external body, mind, and spirit
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Interconnection
Familiarity with the web-like interconnections of internal physiological factors
What to expect during your visits.
At Functional Medicine Collaborative, we identify the origin of a condition and create a treatment plan tailored to each patients’ individual needs. During your first visit you can expect:
Detailed Health Review – We discuss your health concerns, medical history, lifestyle and diet.
In-Depth Diagnostic Testing – Advanced tests may include blood work, stool samples, hormone panels, food allergy testing.
During follow up visits you can expect:
Root Cause Analysis – Identifies underlying causes of symptoms based on test results and your health profile.
Collaborative Treatment Planning – Development of a personalized treatment plan, often including dietary changes, supplements, lifestyle modifications and other therapies.
Follow-Up Strategy – Monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed, including preventive treatments for long-term wellness.
Common questions about functional medicine.
What conditions can functional medicine treat?
Functional medicine is used to treat many conditions such as autoimmune diseases, heartburn, indigestion, hormonal imbalances, metabolic syndrome, thyroid conditions, PCOS, fatigue and more. As a holistic treatment, functional medicine also proves its value as a preventive health approach.
Can functional medicine help with chronic illness?
Functional medicine effectively manages chronic illnesses in many cases where conventional medicine has offered minimal benefits. Treatments provide a more well-rounded approach to health and wellness by focusing on the root cause of the condition.
Is functional medicine a safe treatment?
Functional medicine is a safe treatment that integrates beneficial therapies for diet, lifestyle, sleep and stress. Patients are encouraged to work in partnership with their practitioner to make positive changes that deliver ongoing benefits. Using functional medicine in conjunction with conventional medicine can also offer results in many cases.
