Conventional approaches to inflammation management often focus on controlling symptoms. However, they generally do not address the root causes. This is where functional medicine offers a unique and more comprehensive approach.
Chronic vs. Acute Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a persistent, underlying health issue. It can lead to various symptoms, including:
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Skin problems
Acute inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation results from the immune system staying activated for too long. Left untreated, it can potentially damage healthy tissues.
The Functional Medicine Approach to Chronic Inflammation
Functional medicine aims to determine and address the root causes of chronic conditions like inflammation.
Instead of prescribing medications to reduce symptoms, functional medicine practitioners collaborate with patients to uncover the underlying factors contributing to inflammation. These factors may include:
- Poor gut health
- Stress
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Environmental toxins
By addressing root causes, functional medicine practitioners seek to provide long-term relief and improved health outcomes.
Practitioners generally use a combination of personalized strategies to reduce inflammation and support patient well-being. This includes dietary changes, stress management techniques, and targeted supplements.
Benefits of Functional Medicine for Inflammation
One of the most significant benefits of functional medicine is that it treats each patient as an individual.
Chronic inflammation can manifest in different ways from person to person. The effects depend on genetics, lifestyle, and other factors.
Functional medicine practitioners create tailored treatment plans. They focus on reducing inflammation at its source rather than masking the symptoms.
For example, improving gut health through a customized diet can reduce inflammatory responses. Stress reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga can also lower cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that contributes to inflammation when elevated over time.
Experience Lasting Relief
Chronic inflammation can interfere with your quality of life, but you don’t have to rely on short-term fixes. With a functional medicine approach, you can address the root causes of your inflammation and experience lasting relief.
If you’re ready to explore a more personalized, holistic treatment plan, schedule a consultation at Big Life Integrative Health today. Call us at 303.952.8832 or reach out online.
