About the Approach
What is root cause medicine?
Root cause medicine originates from ideas of functional medicine and is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of illness.
How is root cause medicine different from traditional medicine?
Traditional medicine often addresses symptoms, while root-cause medicine aims to tackle the underlying causes of illness. Root-cause medicine takes into account the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and energetic aspects, whereas traditional medicine typically concentrates mainly on the physical body.
What conditions can root cause medicine help with?
I work with individuals who have various chronic health issues. My specialization is in helping children with allergies, chronic pain, and digestive problems, as well as adults with chronic pain, headaches, migraines, and digestive issues.
How long does it take to see results?
This is a difficult question; the answer depends on the individual and their age. Kids tend to heal more quickly. I expect a noticeable symptom reduction within the first 4 to 6 weeks. I aim for a timeline of around six months to achieve lasting healing.
Is root-cause medicine safe and effective?
While some elements of my approach to root cause medicine may be seen as complementary or alternative, much of it is grounded in scientific principles and evidence.
About the Process
What does a typical first visit involve?
The first visit involves:
- Reviewing the intake form.
- Assessing your different body systems using muscle response testing.
- Discussing and explaining my findings and outlning a treatment plan.
- Explain any recommendations, diet, digestives, stress management and lifestyle modifications.
- For people with chronic pain issues, I may incorporate some Osteopathy at the end of the session if time allows.
What laboratory tests or assessments are needed?
I occasionally use functional medicine stool testing and sibo breath if I am not 95 percent clear on what is happening in your body.
How will you determine the root cause of my health issues?
I identify the root cause of health issues primarily through the information provided on the intake form and what you share with me. Muscle testing and lab tests confirm findings, guide the next steps, and highlight any changes and progress.
About Treatment
What kind of treatments can I expect?
For most clients, I incorporate Osteopathy into visits, which help primarily with helping the body process old stress from past emotional and physical trauma. I also will occasionally use other similar mind-body treatment modalities such as Craniosacral therapy, Energy work and Somatic experiencing.
Will you recommend supplements or medications?
I recommend some supplements, such as probiotics, that can support your body's healing process. Additionally, I might suggest certain vitamin or mineral supplements, like vitamin D, if your diet doesn't provide enough to meet your needs.
How important are lifestyle changes to the healing process?
Lifestyle changes such as improving sleep, moving more, eating a healthy diet, managing stress and finding connections are crucial to achieving good results.
About Cost and Insurance
What is the cost of your services?
The cost of my services is as follows:
- Initial functional medicine consultation: $240.
- 45-minute follow-up appointment: $150.
- 30-minute follow-up appointment: $100.
Is my health insurance likely to cover root-cause medicine?
My root cause medicine services are generally only covered by extended health insurance policies if you have a spending account policy. However, if I recommend incorporating Osteopathy into your treatment plan, it will typically be covered by most insurance policies.
About Concerns and Questions
What if I don't see results quickly?
Whenever possible, I try to find natural ways to alleviate symptoms in the short term to help you feel better, such as through dietary modifications, while addressing the root causes.
Can root cause medicine help with chronic conditions?
Root cause medicine is, by definition, an excellent approach to managing chronic health issues.
Is it possible to combine root-cause medicine with traditional medical treatments?
I do not prescribe medication; however, I encourage clients who are currently taking it to continue until their bodies no longer require it. At that point, I refer my clients to practitioners with experience assisting people with discontinuing their medications.