Alternative/Functional Medicine achieved record growth in 2020, as more people have begun to rely on alternative healthcare treatments, Americans are asking different questions about disease prevention and immune function continuing this trend in 2021. Today, we look at some of the ways this growing industry continues to meet patient needs in new and innovative ways.
As growing numbers of medical professionals continue to accept new healthcare approaches, Alternative healthcare has become Integrative & Complementary healthcare. What once may have been viewed entirely as an alternative to Conventional Healthcare has become a go-to, recommended treatment.
This branch of Alternative/Functional Medicine focuses on a proactive approach to both the prevention and remediation of chronic disease. Whereas Conventional/Allopathic Medicine tends to be reactive in response to specific symptoms, Alternative/Functional Medicine goes beyond pathology and addresses impaired or compromised function of organs, glands and other tissues.
Biological Dentistry
Alternative/Functional Medicine physicians look carefully at the overall dental health of their patients and closely collaborate with Biological Dentists. Research has shown an undeniable link between oral health and total body health. Biological Dentists take the health of the entire body into account when considering treatment options as well as providing preventive care.
As a general rule, biological dentists prefer metal-free dental restorations since metal (mercury) is not a natural part of the body, making metal fillings inappropriate and potentially dangerous over time. Metal-free dentists utilize dental restorative materials that are safe and biocompatible leading to better overall health.
Low-Force Chiropractic
Chiropractic Physicians contribute to Alternative/Functional Medicine in a number of important ways addressing a broad range of musculoskeletal problems, headaches, chronic pain and even metabolic issues often in ways that Conventional/Allopathic Medicine cannot.
Low-force chiropractic techniques are more in demand as people often prefer a gentler approach. As the term implies, low-force techniques apply minimal pressure.
Intelligent Healthcare
Considering we live in the most technologically advanced nation in the world, the U.S. has a relatively high morbidity and mortality rate. What we currently call conventional Healthcare should more accurately be called Diseasecare which is reactive medicine and does not focus enough on prevention. Our society needs Conventional/Allopathic Medicine and deserves respect for when it’s really needed. Many physicians are now recognizing the importance of recommending a whole person/whole body approach which is in the best interest of the patient.
The Pharmacy of the Future
Many people simply do not appreciate the healing power within the right foods that can truly change the course of one’s health. The physicians we’ve discussed above have spent years learning and practicing a more natural medicine–one that relies less on pharmaceuticals and more on appropriate dietary and lifestyle habits. We are very fortunate to have access to many highly skilled physicians in their respective fields who have a passion to deliver the very finest healthcare through Alternative/Functional Medicine.