Functional medicine offers an integrative approach to healthcare, addressing the underlying causes of illness and promoting optimal health. This healthcare method utilizes a combination of conventional and complementary therapies to promote wellness. Here are some services that can be included in functional medicine:
Nutrition Services
During a consultation, practitioners asses a patient’s dietary habits, medical history, symptoms, and laboratory results to gain insight into their nutritional status. These professionals develop a customized plan to optimize nutrient intake based on the evaluation. The plan can also focus on supporting metabolic function and addressing any deficiencies to rebalance the body’s physiological processes. Functional nutritionists may recommend actions such as consuming specific amounts of nutrients, tracking digestive symptoms, and timing meals.
Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments allow for ongoing assessment and refinement of the nutritional plan. Patients receive education on healthy food choices, meal planning, and portion control strategies for overcoming challenges to dietary adherence. Personalized nutritional plans are suitable for addressing many conditions, including obesity and hormone-related weight gain.
Sexual Health Services
Hormones play a role in sexual function, and imbalances can contribute to issues such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, and vaginal dryness. Qualified functional medicine practitioners assess hormone levels through laboratory testing. This includes evaluating testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones. Treatment involves hormone optimization through methods like lifestyle modifications and nutritional support.
Practitioners provide personalized dietary and mental health recommendations to support sexual function and vitality. For enhanced sexual health outcomes, strategies include getting sufficient sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and minimizing alcohol and tobacco use. Approaches can also involve recommending natural and pharmaceutical agents to support sexual health.
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine focuses on harnessing the body’s natural healing mechanisms to repair, replace, or regenerate damaged tissues and organs. During platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, professionals extract platelets from the patient’s blood and inject them into targeted body areas to stimulate tissue repair. This therapy can treat musculoskeletal injuries, osteoarthritis, and tendonitis.
Following PRP therapy, a doctor can advise patients to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period to allow the treated area to heal. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises help support recovery and restore strength and function to the affected area. In some cases, PRP therapy is useful for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting youthful skin.
Diagnostic Testing
Comprehensive diagnostic testing helps functional medicine practitioners uncover the potential causes of various illnesses. Genetic analysis involves assessing an individual’s genetic predisposition to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. Practitioners use DEXA scans to complement nutrition plans. These scans determine bone mineral density, lean muscle mass, and body fat percentage.
Blood tests for early cancer detection involve analyzing specific biomarkers or tumor-associated antigens in the blood. Professionals utilize advanced imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and ultrasound to assess structural problems. Practitioners can then use the information to help monitor disease progression and guide treatment decisions.
Explore Functional Medicine at a Reputed Clinic
Integrative medicine emphasizes personalized, patient-centered care and prevention to address the root causes of illness. There are many services involved, from diagnostic testing to nutrition assessments. Each aspect of functional medicine involves a holistic evaluation of the bodily systems and how they work together to influence health. Contact a reputable clinic to learn more about functional medicine services today.