Today, a range of medical professionals including doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists recognize the benefits of functional medicine. While conventional medicine typically focuses on treating preexisting acute conditions, functional medicine emphasizes correcting imbalances throughout the body. If you’re new to this innovative area of medicine, consider the following guide.

What Is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine employs a holistic approach in order to diagnose issues with the body’s overall function, such as nutrient deficiencies, hormone inconsistencies, and elevated stress levels. To assess these conditions in the body, the doctor may employ a range of diagnostic assessments, including blood, urine, stool, and saliva tests.

By evaluating issues like insulin levels, blood cholesterol, inflammation, and thyroid function, the doctor can assess the body’s internal mechanisms and develop an approach to improving their function. Afterward, the doctor will help devise an individualized treatment plan, which may include dietary and lifestyle changes, specific exercises, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. 

Who Is a Candidate for Functional Medicine? 

While anyone can benefit from functional medicine, it is especially beneficial for chronic conditions and preventive care. While the research involving functional medicine-based approaches remains ongoing, assessing one’s health and improving it today may help combat a range of diseases down the road.

Meanwhile, improving the overall functioning of the body lends a non-invasive way to manage chronic conditions ranging from arthritis to autoimmune diseases to diabetes. Functional medicine can also treat various cardiometabolic conditions, skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema, digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, hormonal and thyroid problems, and mental health issues such as depression. It can also be used as an effective method to maintain a healthy weight. 

Whether you suffer from migraines, chronic pain, or simply want to live more fully and well, consider heading to Smith Chiropractic Clinic in Concord, NC, for a thorough assessment. Since 1978, the experienced chiropractors have provided the personalized, goal-oriented treatments individuals need, including functional medicine and injury rehabilitation. To learn more about the practice, visit the website. Schedule an appointment when you call today at (704) 788-3126.