Integrated Functional Medicine - Functional Chinese Medicine
Functional medicine is an approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease or dysfunction rather than solely treating symptoms. It is a patient-centered, science-based approach that integrates the principles of both conventional medicine and alternative or complementary therapies.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is the ORIGINAL functional medicine. TCM’s foundation is identifying the root and treatment to resolve all symptomatic issues rather than just a band-aid or repression of symptoms.
The Sarasota Center for Acupuncture and Nutrition has combined TCM with modern science creating a Functional Chinese Medicine approach. This combines all the modalities of Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and herbs, with the laboratory analysis and the investigation utilized by Western functional medicine.
Here are some key aspects of Functional Chinese Medicine (FCM)
Holistic Approach: FCM views the body as an interconnected system where various physiological processes and systems interact. It recognizes that imbalances in one area of the body can affect overall health and well-being. The goal is to understand the underlying factors contributing to a person's health issues and address them comprehensively.
Personalized Medicine: FCM considers each individual's unique genetic makeup, environment, lifestyle, and personal health history. It emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient's specific needs, considering factors such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, and social support.
Root Cause Analysis: Instead of focusing solely on symptom management, FCM seeks to identify and address the underlying causes of disease or dysfunction. This may involve investigating factors such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, gut health, chronic inflammation, toxin exposure, and genetic predispositions.
Functional Testing: CFM practitioners often utilize specialized laboratory testing to assess various aspects of a patient's health and identify imbalances or dysfunctions. These tests may include assessments of hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, gastrointestinal health, detoxification capacity, genetic markers, and inflammation and oxidative stress markers.
Integrative Treatment Modalities: CFM combines conventional medical treatments with evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies. Treatment strategies may include acupuncture, dietary and lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, stress management techniques, detoxification protocols, mind-body practices, and physical therapies.
Collaboration and Patient Empowerment: CFM practitioners typically work in partnership with patients, encouraging active participation in their healing process. The patient is empowered to take responsibility for their health and make informed decisions regarding their treatment options. The practitioner serves as a guide, educator, and facilitator of the healing journey.
The Sarasota Center for Acupuncture and Nutrition offers Specialty Testing
More than ever before, lifelong wellness is attainable. At the Sarasota Center for Acupuncture and Nutrition, we can help you achieve this through a personalized FCM treatment plan. We begin by determining your current health through a variety of diagnostic tests. Based on your profile, we can create your road map for wellness.
Diagnostic testing for prevention and wellness available at the Sarasota Center for Acupuncture and Nutrition include:
- Laboratory blood analysis
- Saliva testing - Hormones & Adrenals
- GI MAPS – Gut biome testing
- Urine and stool analysis
- Hair analysis
- Toxicity analysis
- Nutritional deficiency analysis
- Supplement and medication review
- Applied Muscle Response Testing (AK)
Contact us today at 941.951.1119 to schedule your specialty testing.