For all our consultations, we incorporate a foundational functional medicine approach that emphasizes thorough and comprehensive medical assessments, complemented by advanced, specialized laboratory testing. Our goal is to identify and address the root causes of illness while enhancing our body’s systems to function optimally. This approach examines the intricate interactions between genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors that contribute to symptoms and suboptimal health.  Functional medicine is an effective approach for chronic and complex conditions because it goes beyond traditional diagnostic methods by exploring disease processes through the ATMs framework (Antecedents, Triggers, and Mediators):

• Antecedents are genetic or acquired factors that make an individual more likely to develop certain health issues. For example, a family history of diabetes is an antecedent that increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Triggers are environmental factors, lifestyle choices, or specific events that initiate or worsen the symptoms of illness. For example, stress and toxin exposure can trigger autoimmune conditions, while a motor vehicle accident may trigger chronic pain, fibromyalgia or post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Mediators are factors that perpetuate health problems by sustaining harmful responses in the body. For example, an abnormal inflammatory cytokine response after an infection can maintain ongoing symptoms.

Chronic and complex illnesses, such as autoimmune conditions, often involve multiple interacting triggers and mediators. The functional and integrative medicine approach is uniquely positioned to address these complexities by providing a comprehensive individualized plan that considers the whole person. This approach complements the strength of conventional primary care, particularly in cases where time constraints or focus on acute care may limit the ability to address complex, multi-symptom conditions. At Thrive Integrative Medicine, we dedicate the appropriate time and utilize advanced tools to create highly personalized treatment plans, fully supporting patients with complex conditions in achieving long-term, sustainable health.