Functional Medicine
What is functional medicine
Functional Medicine is a personalized, patient-centered, science-based approach that allows patients and practitioners to collaborate and address the underlying causes of disease and achieve optimal wellness. It entails a detailed understanding of each patient’s medical history, genetics, hormonal changes, environmental, nutritional, and lifestyle factors.
The main purpose of Functional Medicine is to address root causes, rather than symptoms. Frequently, one condition has many different causes and, conversely, one cause may result in many different conditions. Functional Medicine treatment targets specific manifestations of illness in each individual.
Functional medicine utilizes individualized therapies to diagnose and identify the exact cause of your symptoms. Special testing is used to assess whether imbalances developed prior to the illness or were a result of treating chronic disease. Some examples include depression, that is caused by Vitamin D deficiency, low thyroid and antibiotic use, or depression, heart disease, arthritis and diabetes that all stem from inflammation.
What is the difference between a functional medicine provider and a regular MD
Functional Medicine doctors focus on determining the underlying causes of chronic illness as opposed to traditional doctors that limit treatment to symptoms only. They usually spend more time with you than conventional doctors.
Your relationship with a functional medicine doctor will be different than with your primary care doctor. According to The Institute For Functional Medicine, it’s a more collaborative partnership: the doctor considers your input while still keeping you responsible for your choices as they relate to your condition and treatment.
They collect detailed information about the disease and your overall lifestyle.
What can you expect from your initial Functional Medicine appointment
Dr. Rothman will spend approximately 60-90 minutes during your initial visit to perform a comprehensive evaluation including:
Complete individual and family medical history
Timeline of symptoms
Diet
Lifestyle
Environmental factors
Sleep patterns
Personal relationships
Exercise
Emotional wellbeing
Prescription and over-the-counter medication
Supplements
Other therapies
The doctor may prescribe various lab test to further evaluate the origins of your symptoms.
Your second visit
Your second visit will be scheduled one to two weeks after your initial consultation. This visit will include reviewing any lab tests that were administered. Together, you and Dr. Rothman will come up with a detailed treatment plan that is tailored to your specific illness, including:
Lifestyle modifications
Nutritional recommendations
Herbs, vitamins, and supplements
Exercise regimen
Stress reduction techniques (meditation, breathing exercises, guided imagery, etc.)
Other therapies and treatments as needed
How many visits will I need
Dr. Rothman will carefully monitor your treatment progress and make changes as needed. Depending on your individual response to treatment, you may need several additional visits. The healing process takes time, patience, and consistency. Most patients on average will obtain optimal results within three to six months. Dr. Rothman will assist you every step of the way with your treatment plan and guidance to keep you on track.