Has anyone been to a functional medicine practitioner vs dermatologist?

[kh924]

I have an appt with one on weds. Curious to see what they will say about my skin. Was just wondering if anyone else here had tried this type of medical route.

[Fred]

Sorry don't know what one is.

[jiml]

Not me either Kelly, you Americans have things we've never heard of over here no doubt in where you all go we follow
Let us know what it's about?

[kh924]

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. It is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, functional medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Functional medicine practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, functional medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual.

WHY DO WE NEED FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?
Our society is experiencing a sharp increase in the number of people who suffer from complex, chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
The system of medicine practiced by most physicians is oriented toward acute care, the diagnosis and treatment of trauma or illness that is of short duration and in need of urgent care, such as appendicitis or a broken leg. Physicians apply specific, prescribed treatments such as drugs or surgery that aim to treat the immediate problem or symptom.
Unfortunately, the acute-care approach to medicine lacks the proper methodology and tools for preventing and treating complex, chronic disease. In most cases it does not take into account the unique genetic makeup of each individual or factors such as environmental exposures to toxins and the aspects of today’s lifestyle that have a direct influence on the rise in chronic disease in modern Western society.
There’s a huge gap between research and the way doctors practice. The gap between emerging research in basic sciences and integration into medical practice is enormous—as long as 50 years—particularly in the area of complex, chronic illness.
Most physicians are not adequately trained to assess the underlying causes of complex, chronic disease and to apply strategies such as nutrition, diet, and exercise to both treat and prevent these illnesses in their patients.
HOW IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE DIFFERENT?
Functional medicine involves understanding the origins, prevention, and treatment of complex, chronic disease. Hallmarks of a functional medicine approach include:
Patient-centered care. The focus of functional medicine is on patient-centered care, promoting health as a positive vitality, beyond just the absence of disease. By listening to the patient and learning his or her story, the practitioner brings the patient into the discovery process and tailors treatments that address the individual’s unique needs.
An integrative, science-based healthcare approach. Functional medicine practitioners look “upstream” to consider the complex web of interactions in the patient’s history, physiology, and lifestyle that can lead to illness. The unique genetic makeup of each patient is considered, along with both internal (mind, body, and spirit) and external (physical and social environment) factors that affect total functioning.
Integrating best medical practices. Functional medicine integrates traditional Western medical practices with what is sometimes considered “alternative” or “integrative” medicine, creating a focus on prevention through nutrition, diet, and exercise; use of the latest laboratory testing and other diagnostic techniques; and prescribed combinations of drugs and/or botanical medicines, supplements, therapeutic diets, detoxification programs, or stress-management

[jiml]

Kelly that sounds expensive...
It will be interesting to see if it works for you
I'm assuming the last months events have set you back on your psoriasis treatment, and you are starting to look for answers again ....I know you are intelligent The only note of caution I will say is don't waste a lot of money on "cures" I'm not saying don't try alternatives but I will say give conventional medicine a chance, I know you have had bad experience with conventional medicine but have faith there is something that won't cost a fortune out there that will give you relief

[kh924]

You are correct in that the last month presented me with some setbacks. I have already spent a small fortune on dermatologists, steroid creams, steroid scalp oils and shampoos not covered by insurance, emergency room visits, prescribed medications along with every over the counter lotion, cream, soap or body wash that looked like it might give me relief and hasn't. Not to mention vitamins, colon hydrotherapy and the alcohol to deal with the stress of it all!! The special makeup that promises to cover and doesn't, clothing to cover my arms and legs in the summer, tanning and goodness knows what else. I've lost count. Good advice Jim.

[jiml]

You are correct in that the last month presented me with some setbacks. I have already spent a small fortune on dermatologists, steroid creams, steroid scalp oils and shampoos not covered by insurance, emergency room visits, prescribed medications along with every over the counter lotion, cream, soap or body wash that looked like it might give me relief and hasn't. Not to mention vitamins, colon hydrotherapy and the alcohol to deal with the stress of it all!! The special makeup that promises to cover and doesn't, clothing to cover my arms and legs in the summer, tanning and goodness knows what else. I've lost count. Good advice Jim.

Sorry if I appeared flippant Kelly the only thing I want is a treatment that will work for you. I know it's very hard and I don't blame you for trying the alternative route. I guess in a clumsy sort of way I was saying be careful, there isn't a quick fix but don't get conned out of loads of money
Jim x

[kh924]

You were not flippant at all my dear! if I made you feel that was I apologize as it was not my intent at all. You are completely correct!!! One can spend a small fortune searching for something that helps.

[Fred]

Kelly keep your money in your pocket.

Quote:

---

The Institute for Functional Medicine was founded in 1993 Jeffrey Bland and Susan Bland.

In 1991, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission charged that two corporations led by Jeffrey Bland, HealthComm and Nu-Day Enterprises, had falsely claimed that their diet program could cause weight loss by changing consumers' metabolism and cause them to lose weight without exercising so that fat would be lost as body heat instead of being stored.

In 1995, the FTC charged Bland and his companies with violating the 1991 consent order by making further unsubstantiated weight-loss claims for several products, including the UltraClear dietary program, which had been falsely claimed to reduce the incidence and severity of symptoms associated with gastrointestinal problems, inflammatory and immunologic problems, fatigue, food allergies, mercury exposure, kidney disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis. The second settlement agreement included a $45,000 civil penalty.

Wikipedia

I wouldn't touch it with a bargepole.

[slm]

Hi Kelly. I am in Australia and have not heard of Functional Medicine although there are many Natropathic Practitioners. I hope the appointment goes well.