Functional Medicine

Functional Medicine is a whole-body approach that focuses on identifying the root cause of disease. To fully understand the “why” behind the symptoms someone experiences, a functional medicine approach includes a comprehensive history intake and understanding of a person’s unique past medical history.

 

With a functional medicine approach, quality time is spent getting to know a person’s individual lifestyle and environmental factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, nutrition and hydration, exercise and movement, sleep and relaxation, relationships, stress levels, environmental pollutants, microorganism exposure, and history of trauma. Are there specific genetic factors that predispose an individual to a condition? Are there previous experiences and emotional influences? Are there factors that trigger or mediate the development of these symptoms? The timeline of events in a person’s life is like a window into their state of and wellbeing.

 

A physical examination and/or lab testing assists us to identify underlying physiological imbalances that need to be addressed. Routine bloodwork may be a part of the picture, but often times, specialty lab testing may also be recommended, including hormone testing, comprehensive stool analysis, nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, hair tissue mineral analysis, or other advanced testing options. After putting together information from a comprehensive history and appropriate testing, a personalized treatment plan and recommendations are made to improve the overall health and well-being of each individual patient.

 

Functional Medicine focuses on the importance of being proactive about health, versus reactive to symptoms that arise when the body is out of balance. Through a variety of treatment interventions, including dietary changes, lifestyle recommendations, and professional-grade herbs and dietary supplements, patients can often achieve relief of symptoms, improved quality of life, and reduced risk of developing chronic diseases.

 

Dr. Erin received her Master’s Degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine and is humbled to have helped so many of her patients achieve their health goals with the use of this approach to care. Her main passions include helping patients improve hormone imbalances, natural fertility and conception, digestive complaints, mood disorders, and supporting growing families with natural and holistic remedies.