Functional Medicine

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is the patient-centered approach to healing. It views us all as being different genetically and biochemically. This personalized health care focuses on us as an individual, not just the apparent symptoms. It is a shift from the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a patient-centered approach, functional medicine addresses the individual, you and I, as a whole. It goes beyond treating mere symptoms and focuses on the long term approach to living a vibrant life that maximizes vitality. Often in traditional medicine your symptoms are diagnosed and you are prescribed medication(s) to alleviate the symptoms but not solve the underlying problem. This may work for acute or short term problems but fails miserably in treating chronic (reoccurring/long term) health issues. Functional medicine involves understanding the origins, prevention, and treatment of complex, chronic disease.

Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach that engages both patient and doctor in the healing process. It looks a the big picture of our overall health, incorporating our genetics, diet, lifestyle and bio-chemical profile. Research shows that what happens inside of us is connected in a complicated web of relationships between different systems of the body. This evolutionary and progressive approach to medicine incorporates an understanding of the multiple unique systems in your body (such as your nervous system, digestive system, immune system, and endocrine system).

Functional medicine doctors take the time to go deeper with their patients in order to develop a true understanding of the unique health and vitality potential of their clients. They will ask you about your history, genetics, and lifestyle.