Authored by: Dr. Natalie Dalton
As a practitioner of functional medicine, I have witnessed a paradigm shift in healthcare that challenges the traditional conventions of medical practice. In a world where conventional medicine has long been the norm, functional medicine emerges as a compelling alternative, embracing a holistic perspective that prioritises root-cause analysis and individualised treatment plans.
This article aims to shed light on the merits of functional medicine while acknowledging its differences with conventional approaches.
A holistic framework
Functional medicine operates on the principle that the body is an intricate web of interconnected systems, each influencing the other. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on treating symptoms in isolation, functional medicine seeks to understand the underlying imbalances that manifest as symptoms.
By examining the interplay of genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors, functional medicine offers a comprehensive understanding of a patient's health.
In my practice, I've found that this holistic framework allows for a more nuanced diagnosis and a more tailored treatment plan. Rather than merely addressing symptoms, functional medicine strives to identify the root causes, enabling patients to achieve lasting health improvements.
Functional medicine embraces a wide array of integrative therapies, drawing from both conventional and alternative modalities. This inclusivity allows practitioners to tailor treatment plans based on an individual's unique needs and preferences. Integrating nutrition, supplements, mind-body practices and other complementary therapies enables a more comprehensive and personalised approach to healthcare.
While conventional medicine tends to rely heavily on pharmaceutical interventions, functional medicine recognises the value of a diverse toolkit. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for patients who may prefer or respond better to non-pharmacological interventions.
Central to the ethos of functional medicine is the concept of patient-centred care. In contrast to the often hurried and symptom-centric approach of conventional medicine, functional medicine prioritises building a strong doctor-patient relationship.
Taking the time to listen to patients' narratives, understanding their unique experiences and acknowledging their individuality are key aspects of functional medicine.
This patient-centric approach not only fosters a sense of empowerment but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the factors influencing an individual's health. It encourages patients to actively participate in their own healthcare journey, fostering a sense of responsibility for their wellbeing.
Root-cause resolution
Conventional medicine often relies on pharmaceutical interventions to manage symptoms, providing relief but not necessarily addressing the root cause. Functional medicine, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on root-cause resolution. By identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to an individual's health issues, functional medicine aims to promote sustained healing and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
In my practice, I have seen patients experience profound improvements by addressing lifestyle factors such as diet, stress and sleep patterns. This proactive approach not only alleviates current symptoms but also equips patients with the tools to maintain their health over the long term.
Challenges and criticisms
Despite its many merits, functional medicine is not without its challenges and critics. Some argue that the lack of standardisation in functional medicine practices makes it difficult to assess and compare outcomes across practitioners. Critics also express concerns about the potential for misinformation and pseudoscience within the field.
Acknowledging these criticisms, it is essential for functional medicine practitioners to uphold rigorous standards, grounded in evidence-based approaches. Emphasising collaboration with conventional medical practitioners and maintaining a commitment to ongoing education and research are crucial steps in addressing these concerns. Studies have shown that the functional medicine model of care demonstrates beneficial and sustainable associations with patient-reported health-related quality of life outcomes.
As a functional medicine practitioner, I see the continued growth of functional medicine not as a threat to conventional medicine but as an opportunity for collaboration and mutual learning. Both approaches have their strengths, and by embracing an integrative model, we can provide patients with the best of both worlds.
Functional medicine's focus on root-cause analysis, patient-centred care and integrative therapies complements the strengths of conventional medicine. By fostering open communication and shared knowledge between practitioners of different modalities, I believe we can create a healthcare system that truly prioritises the wellbeing of patients.
Disclaimer: This article is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.
You can find out more about functional medicine at Therapy Works here.
Dr. Natalie Dalton (TCM) has been practicing Integrative Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine for 30+ years. She is a clinically minded Chinese Medicine practitioner, dedicated to ensuring that you receive effective treatment that specifically addresses your unique needs and issues.
Beidelschies M, Alejandro-Rodriguez M, Ji X, Lapin B, Hanaway P, Rothberg MB. Association of the Functional Medicine Model of Care With Patient-Reported Health-Related Quality-of-Life Outcomes. JAMA Netw Open. 2019;2(10):e1914017. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.14017
Holistic Practitioners are alternative healing experts with a gift in several areas of healing.
From bodyworkers to homeopaths to hypnotherapists, the term holistic specialist has actually turned into one that is often difficult to define or recognize.
With any luck, this article will certainly supply you with some clearness on what a holistic doctor in Denver is and how to locate one that fulfills your individual requirements.While there are general practitioners that go across several courses, a lot of specializing in several holistic techniques or areas.
Every one of these therapists aims to bring a higher quality of life to their clients.
Likewise, because the mind-body-soul link is just that, linked, anywhere you start, be it in power work, bodywork, or even the mind, you will find that every one of you is influenced by the job.Use this article as a guide to check out the realms of opportunities, rather than limiting your choices to an area.
Examples of body-centered therapists are bodyworkers, massage therapy specialists, pilates and also yoga therapists, rolfing experts( commonly called rolfers), acupressure therapists, myofascial launch and sporting activities massage therapy therapists, reflexologists, Thai massage therapy therapists, watsu practitioners, Feldenkrais and Alexander technique professionals, as well as activity specialists (this listing is supplied to offer an introduction as there are at least 50 sorts of body-centered therapists).While each body-centered therapist has their very own method of collaborating with clients, numerous use a mix of activity, the breath, and physical stress (from massage therapy to activate points) to permit the body to release tension.
