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.
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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.
Hallmarks of Functional Medicine
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 botanical medicines, supplements, therapeutic diets, detoxification programs, or stress-management techniques.
The Problem​​
Why we need Functional Medicine?
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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.​
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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.
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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.
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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. Why settle for outdated practices?
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Our Solution
About Doctor Sellers Functional Medicine
Dr. Sellers Functional Medicine began with you in mind. After 23 years in healthcare, Dr. Tracey Sellers has learned what works best to help others achieve optimum health. Your time is valuable, so Dr. Sellers tailor-made a solution to fit your busy lifestyle. To save you time, Dr. Sellers has eliminated the need to drive to a doctor’s office, find parking, and sit in a waiting room. This time could be better spent.
Appointments with Dr. Sellers are at your convenience, with zero travel and wait time! She uses the latest technology to allow you to have appointments in the comfort of your own home or office via telephone and video conferencing. Additionally, most testing can also be done in your home, with your specimens being mailed directly to our labs.
Whether you are suffering from an illness or simply not feeling your best, Dr. Sellers performs a thorough investigation to search for underlying physiological and biochemical processes that are contributing to your lack of wellness. Armed with all the information necessary to pinpoint the problem, she tailors the plan of care to your specific needs as an individual. She may use specific nutritional counseling, pharmaceutical grade supplementation, lifestyle modification intervention, or any combination of the three to support your healing process. Dr. Sellers seeks the easiest and most effective way to help your body restore homeostasis and allow you to Live Your Best Life!
We are committed to your optimal health and to making the journey as easy as possible.