Are you in constant pain or have symptoms that haven't been diagnosed? Are you taking medication that is not providing very much relief? Wouldn't it be nice to visit with a doctor that actually cares about helping you feel well again? A functional medicine doctor will take time to listen to you and find the best solution for whatever is ailing you.
What is A Functional Medicine Doctor?
Functional medicine is a practice that seeks out the root cause of a patient's illness. These days it seems traditional doctors are only concerned with handing you a prescription and sending you on your way. A functional medicine doctor will work to determine the cause of your symptoms and use natural, homeopathic remedies as well as pharmaceutical remedies to treat them.
What Type of Degree Does A Functional Medicine Doctor Have?
Functional medicine practitioners are real doctors that have completed traditional medical school training. After medical school, they become certified in functional medicine to demonstrate they are trained and committed to this type of practice. Other practitioners such as chiropractors, acupuncturists, and dentists may also be certified in functional medicine.
What are the Benefits of Seeing a Functional Medicine Doctor?
When traditional doctors have not been able to help you feel better, and you are looking for other options, you should see a functional medicine practitioner. Some benefits of choosing a functional medical doctor include:
Longer Appointment Times
Functional medicine doctors will spend more time with you as their process involves collecting a detailed medical history. They will take the time to listen to your concerns and gather all the information they need to make a diagnosis and treatment plan.
They Promote Alternative Treatments
In addition to prescription drugs, functional medicine doctors will also recommend alternative treatments such as acupuncture, meditation, and herbal remedies. They also encourage a healthy diet and physical activity and help you develop a plan for healthy lifestyle changes.
They Search for the Cause of Chronic Illness
Doctors in the field of functional medicine are problem solvers that seek to find the causes of chronic disease, as opposed to simply treating the symptoms. If you want a doctor who will dive deeper into finding the cause of your illness, a functional medicine doctor is right for you.
They Offer a Personalized Experience
Functional medicine doctors address each person as an individual. They use different methods than a conventional medical doctor to help you find specific treatments that are right for you.
What to Expect At Your First Appointment with a Functional Medicine Doctor
Functional medicine practitioners use a more holistic approach to healing and evaluate a patient's physical, emotional, and mental health. They will ask questions to get to know you and your habits. A functional medicine doctor will ask about your:
- Sleeping patterns
- Eating habits
- Exercise routine
- Common stressors
- Personal relationships
- Emotional health
- Timeline of when your symptoms started
- How your symptoms have progressed
Once the doctor has gathered all of this information, they will create a treatment plan for you. Their plan may include therapies, supplements, or prescription medication. The doctor will then track your progress and make changes to your treatment plan as needed.
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