THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Various forms of alternative medicine, such as functional medicine and integrative medicine, have been quickly gaining popularity in the 21st century. Both disciplines are highly regarded by world-renowned health care practitioners such as Drs. Deepak Chopra, Mark Hyman and Dean Ornish. Many believe functional and integrative medicine are the future of medicine. Physicians are beginning to take a more holistic approach to treating patients, no longer just concentrating on treating a disease. Although functional medicine and integrative medicine have similarities and overlap in several areas, there are a few factors that make each discipline somewhat unique.
What is Integrative Medicine?
Integrative medicine is a holistic medical discipline which takes into account the lifestyle habits of a patient. The physician works to treat the whole person rather than just the disease. The mind, body, and soul of a patient are taken into consideration to promote healing and well-being.
Integrative medicine uses a combination of modern healthcare practices to diagnose and treat a patient. Treatments may include such modalities as acupuncture, yoga, or massage. This medical practice also focuses on the nutritional and exercise habits of the patient to curb factors related to obesity and diabetes. Integrative medicine physicians believe poor lifestyle choices are the root cause of many modern chronic diseases.