Functional Medicine

Functional medicine is an evidence-based, holistic approach to care that considers your physical, mental, and emotional health, and your lifestyle choices, genetics, and environment, to provide the most comprehensive care possible. As an integrative medicine specialist, Michelle Sandwisch, ARNP, FNP-C, takes a functional approach to care at Origin Medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is functional medicine?

Functional medicine is an integrative approach to health care that focuses on individuality and personalized care. It emphasizes treating the cause of the disease rather than the symptoms. At Origin Medicine, Michelle considers how your mind, body, spirit, physical, and social factors interact and influence your health.

What are the core principles of functional medicine?

Functional medicine has a few distinct core principles, including:

Treat the whole person

Functional medicine understands the mind and body’s interconnectedness, ensuring that Michelle provides comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs.

Address the underlying cause

Michelle recognizes that masking symptoms can cause more harm than good. Rather than treating symptoms, she aims to resolve the root cause of your condition for long-lasting health and wellness.

Focus on natural treatments

Functional medicine focuses on natural treatments and interventions that support your body's inherent healing mechanisms, emphasizing lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, and stress management to self-heal.

Prioritize preventive care

Preventing disease is safer, easier, and more cost-effective than treating it after it occurs. Michelle works with you to help maintain your health with age.

Which health concerns can benefit from functional medicine?

Nearly any health problem can benefit from functional medicine, including:

• Diabetes and metabolic disorders
• Cardiovascular disorders
• Autoimmune disorders
• Hormonal imbalances
• Thyroid disorders
• Allergies and food sensitivities
• Anxiety, depression, and mood disorders
• Cognitive decline
• Chronic stress, and fatigue

Focusing on the body’s interconnectedness allows Michelle to develop an individualized care plan that addresses multiple health concerns.

I’m considering functional medicine. What are the benefits?

Functional medicine’s holistic approach offers many benefits for all ages, including:

• Personalized, patient-centered care
• Integrative strategies with evidence-based Western and alternative techniques
• Emphasis on prevention and self-healing
• Longer, more comprehensive appointments
• Improved physical, social, emotional, and mental well-being
• Focus on longevity

As a functional medicine specialist, Michelle strives to be more than your provider; her goal is to be your partner in health care for life. She uses a six-step personal health care process to assess your needs, complete necessary lab work, establish your individualized plan, and monitor your progress.

Call Origin Medicine today or schedule an appointment online to partner with an experienced functional medicine specialist.