Welcome to Clarity in Johnston, Iowa, where Dr. Walker Porterfield and his team are revolutionizing the approach to healthcare through functional medicine. Today, we delve into the depths of this innovative approach to answer the question: What is functional medicine?

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is not merely a medical discipline; it's a paradigm shift in how we view and treat chronic disease. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on managing symptoms with medication, functional medicine takes a holistic and patient-centered approach to uncovering the root causes of illness.

At Clarity, we recognize that chronic diseases are complex and multifaceted. Rather than merely addressing surface-level symptoms, functional medicine practitioners like myself and Dr. Allison seek to understand the underlying imbalances and dysfunctions within the patient's body.

But how does functional medicine differ from conventional medicine? Let's take a closer look.

Get Started Today!

Functional Medicine Practitioner vs Allopathic Practitioners

Functional medicine operates on the principle of systems biology, viewing the body as an interconnected network of systems rather than a collection of isolated parts (think cardiologist or pulmonologist). By understanding how these systems interact and influence one another, we can identify the underlying factors contributing to a patient's dysfunction.

In contrast to the one-size-fits-all approach of conventional medicine, functional medicine is highly individualized and patient-centered. We recognize that each patient is unique, with their own set of genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences. By taking a whole-person approach, we can develop personalized treatment plans tailored to address each patient's specific needs and goals.

Addressing The Root Cause

One of the key tenets of functional medicine is the importance of addressing root causes rather than merely treating symptoms. Consider, for example, a patient presenting with chronic fatigue syndrome. While conventional medicine might prescribe medication to alleviate fatigue, a functional medicine practitioner would delve deeper to uncover the underlying factors contributing to the patient's fatigue, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or environmental toxins.

Lifestyle Factors

Functional medicine also emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors in promoting health and well-being. From nutrition and exercise to stress management and sleep hygiene, we recognize that lifestyle plays a crucial role in preventing and treating chronic disease. That's why at Clarity, we offer comprehensive programs and resources to empower patients to make positive lifestyle changes and take control of their health.

Our Approach For Chronic Disease Treatment

Our approach to functional medicine is informed by the latest research and expertise in the field. As a practitioner, I along with Dr. Allison have undergone extensive training and education in functional medicine, drawing upon the resources and knowledge learned at Palmer College, seminars, research, from our experience in the field, and from the experience of our mentors.

But perhaps most importantly, functional medicine is about collaboration and partnership between practitioner and patient. We believe in empowering patients to become active participants in their own healing journey, providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to achieve optimal health and well-being. We will utilize a series of tests to determine exactly what you need, ranging from muscle testing to extensive saliva and blood panels.

Clarity's Process

It all starts with a consultation. From there we can determine which route we need to go to get the best possible results. Some patients only need a slight amount of guidance with lifestyle factors, others need a complex series of treatments and diagnostics to get results. I like to use the car analogy to explain how functional medicine can work for people

Car Analogy

We are only given one body to make it through life, so treat it correctly. If you were to drive your car, never taking time to change the oil (get adjusted), rotate the tires (exercise), or put in the right fuel (eat healthy), you wouldn't expect it to run very well. To go back and fix all the problems after the fact, you would incur a serious expense and it would take quite some time to get back to normal. Where as if you take care of your car, keeping it shined up and running like a top, trips to the mechanic will go much more smoothly, with less time and expense associated.

How Do I Get Started?

So, whether you're struggling with chronic illness, interested in preventing disease, or simply seeking to optimize your health, consider exploring the transformative power of functional medicine. Contact Clarity today to schedule your initial consultation and start your journey to wellness.

FAQ's

How does functional medicine differ from conventional medicine?

In conventional medicine, the focus is often on managing symptoms with medication, while functional medicine takes a holistic and patient-centered approach to uncovering the root causes of illness. Functional medicine practitioners address the underlying imbalances and dysfunctions within the body's interconnected systems, rather than just treating surface-level symptoms.

What role do lifestyle factors play in functional medicine?

Lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep hygiene are central to functional medicine. Practitioners recognize the profound impact that lifestyle choices have on health and well-being, and they work with patients to make positive changes that support overall wellness and prevent chronic disease.

How does functional medicine address chronic fatigue syndrome?

While conventional medicine might focus on alleviating fatigue symptoms with medication, functional medicine takes a deeper approach. Practitioners investigate the underlying factors contributing to chronic fatigue syndrome, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or environmental toxins, and develop personalized treatment plans to address these root causes. We often find Hormone correction to be one of the best ways to conquer chronic fatigue. Throw in some Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and you can kick that condition to the curb!

What makes functional medicine patient-centered?

Functional medicine is highly individualized and patient-centered, recognizing that each patient is unique with their own set of genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences. Practitioners collaborate with patients, empowering them to become active participants in their healing journey and providing the tools, resources, and support they need to achieve optimal health and well-being.