What is FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?

The new paradigm of metabolic analysis is called functional medicine. The overall goal is to maximize whole body function at all levels - cellular, genetic, emotional, mental and physical. The doctors may analyze urine, blood, stool, breath, hair or saliva specimens to evaluate various molecules such as heavy metal toxins, hormones, minerals, vitamins, fats, proteins, or organic acid chemicals, etc. In many cases very few laboratory tests need to be evaluated, and the doctor can assess a person through additional means and implement simple but highly effective nutritional suggestions.

When combined with the life changing treatments of chiropractic, nutritional supplementation and dietary changes can initiate significant recovery in patients with chronic health conditions. The following health problems typically have a primary nutritional and/or toxin imbalance as a root cause: chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel, migraines, skin dermatitis / eczema, autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroiditis, etc., brain fog / memory issues, recurrent infections, weak immunity, asthma and many other conditions.

Functional medicine protocols have been developed that provide restoration of tissue function. Common treatments may focus on the digestive, immune and detoxification systems that have a calming effect on the whole body. By building a good foundation in these core control systems, the brain or hormone system can regulate and orchestrate the rest of the tissue functions at the highest level. The net effect is that patients begin to feel better with more energy and symptom reduction or reversal.