In today’s world there are many forms of healthcare and two of the major approaches are discussed here as the difference between functional medicine and conventional medicine.

Conventional medicine primarily addresses symptoms, often relying on pharmaceuticals or surgical interventions to manage them. This symptom-centered approach may lead to patients becoming dependent on medications, as their symptoms can reappear once the treatment is discontinued, without addressing the main cause of the issue.

Functional medicine takes a root-cause approach to health, focusing on restoring balance and optimizing function by addressing underlying factors rather than just managing symptoms. By considering the body as an interconnected system, this approach promotes long-term wellness. For decades, surveys have shown Americans’ dissatisfaction with the conventional healthcare system, which has contributed to the rising interest in functional medicine over the past ten years.