Functional Medicine

Q.What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is an approach to health that looks to identify and address root causes rather than address symptoms. For instance, if you have a headache, the Functional Medicine approach would seek to identify a possible nutrient deficiency, stressor, dietary trigger or toxin that is contributing to onset. The practitioner would then address those factors with the goal of providing relief and optimizing wellness.

Q. What is a Functional Medicine Practitioner?

A Functional Medicine Practitioner focuses on the biological pathways of health and the symptoms that arise when those systems fail. Their training emphasizes high-quality nutrition, efficient digestion, and waste elimination. Additionally, they are skilled in using nutritional supplements and other wellness modalities to promote long-term health.

Q. Who is educated in Functional Medicine?

MD’s, DO’s Nurse Practitioners, PA’s, Chiropractors, Naturopaths, Nutritionists, Health Coaches, Herbalists and others can be educated in the principles and approaches of Functional Medicine. Since much of Functional Medicine centers on diet, environmental influence and non-pharmacological approaches to health, a wider variety of health practitioners can receive such training.

Q. What is the role of medications in Functional Medicine?

If a Functional Medicine Practitioner is also eligible to prescribe medication according to state laws, prescriptions are sometimes used to improve function and provide relief. Functional Medicine prioritizes diet, nutrient deficiency, stress removal and toxin elimination prior to medication, but some practitioners use medication if it falls within their scope of practice. Many Functional Medicine Practitioners are able to work independent of prescriptions.

Q. What is the difference between Functional medicine and conventional medicine?

Conventional medicine has its place and is wonderful at addressing acute conditions requiring emergency care and hospitalization. Functional medicine is often sought when conventional approaches to health are insufficient or when patients and clients desire a more holistic perspective on wellness.

Q. What is a consult with a Functional Medicine provider like?

Initial appointments typically go for an hour or two as the practitioner seeks to understand the patient or client’s needs thoroughly. There is typically a greater amount of information and health history gathered at first contact so that the practitioner will review this information prior to the initial visit. Upon completion, the practitioner will provide dietary and supplement recommendations as well as lifestyle modification. If it falls within the provider’s scope of practice, medication may also be a part of recommendations.

Q. What is the role of science in Functional Medicine?

Science is fundamental to the education of Functional Medicine Practitioners. Their training involves a rigorous review of the latest scientific research and a focus on evidence-based practices to ensure the best possible care for their patients and clients.

Q. Can someone be certified in Functional Medicine?

There are organizations like the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) that require completion of certain educational modules to receive certification. Other organizations and educational institutions also provide certificates upon completion of training. Schools like the University of Western States offer Masters Degrees in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine.

Q. What testing does Functional Medicine use?

Functional Medicine practitioners use specialized testing to identify nutritional imbalances and environmental stressors. By investigating these "upstream" factors, they can better understand downstream effects and understand why they manifest as physical symptoms.