Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. Functional medicine takes a more patient-centered approach, addressing the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. We spend time with our patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, functional medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual.
As with integrative medicine, we integrate traditional Western medical practices with “alternative” or “complementary.” We used evidenced-based practices to determine which of the above modalities will best serve each individuals health goals. We use the latest laboratory testing and other diagnostic techniques to determine what underlying causes might be. Sometimes, we utilize pharmaceutical medications, sometimes we utilize botanical medicine, supplements, therapeutic diet modification, manual therapies, stress-management programs, or exercise prescriptions to achieve short term symptom management and long term health goals.