What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of a patient's health concerns, rather than simply addressing symptoms. This approach is based on the belief that the body has the ability to heal itself, and that health is a state of optimal function.

Functional medicine practitioners use a variety of diagnostic tools and therapies to help patients achieve optimal health. These may include traditional medical testing, such as blood work and imaging, as well as functional medicine testing, such as genetic testing and gut microbiome analysis.

In addition to testing, functional medicine practitioners also use a variety of therapies to address the underlying causes of a patient's health concerns. These may include dietary and lifestyle changes, supplements, herbal medicine, and functional medicine protocols.

One of the key principles of functional medicine is the use of personalized medicine. This means that providers work with each patient to create a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and health concerns. This approach recognizes that each person is unique, and that what works for one person may not work for another.

Another important aspect of functional medicine is the use of a systems-based approach. This means that practitioners look at the body as a whole, rather than focusing on individual organs or systems. This approach recognizes that the body is interconnected, and that health is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle.

Overall, functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of a patient's health concerns. This approach is personalized and systems-based, and is designed to help patients achieve optimal health and function.