An Alternative Approach
Functional Medicine was named for its common-sense approach. We are not all the same, and our treatment must be as unique as our individual physiology.
The difference in approaches is very apparent.
|
Functional Medicine |
Traditional |
|
|
Focus |
||
|
prevention |
X |
|
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early detection of disease |
X |
|
|
unmanaged chronic conditions |
X |
|
|
disease intervention |
X |
X |
|
acute problems |
X |
|
|
malignancies |
X |
|
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emergencies, trauma |
X |
|
|
Examination and Treatment Approach |
||
|
underlying causes of disease |
X |
|
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symptoms of disease |
X |
|
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Diagnosis |
||
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involves a “whole body systems” analysis |
X |
|
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involves basic exam and minimal blood tests |
X |
|
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Laboratory Tests |
||
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comprehensive diagnostic tests that reveal specific system dysfunction and potential for disease |
X |
|
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basic lab tests that identify or confirm a disease |
X |
|
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Treatment Options |
||
|
pharmaceutical grade-natural products |
X |
|
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diet and lifestyle changes |
X |
|
|
pharmaceuticals |
X |
|
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surgery |
X |
|
|
Patient Care |
||
|
individualized care |
X |
|
|
focus on the patient |
X |
|
|
standardized approaches to care |
X |
|
|
focus on the disease |
X |
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