Why Do We Need Functional Medicine?

[dt_quote type=”pullquote” layout=”right” font_size=”normal” animation=”none” size=”1″]Our society has experienced 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.[/dt_quote]

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.

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.

Video: Dr. Mark Hyman speaks at the prestigious TEDMED 2012 conference, saying that unhealthy lifestyles have brought on a social epidemic of “diabesity,” and community-driven solutions may be the only way out.

To schedule a consultation, please email us, or call our offices in St. Augustine or Jacksonville (904) 342-2783, and Weston (954) 895-7896.[dt_gap height=”20″ /]