Multiple sclerosis (MS), is a complex neurological disorder that affects everything from a patient's vision and energy levels to their organ functions and ability to ambulate over time. While the exact cause of the disorder is still unknown, scientists have discovered that exposure to certain toxins in the environment and the deprivation of certain nutrients from someone's diet can be factors. 

MS patients used to struggle to manage their symptoms without much hope of actually controlling the underlying disease. This has changed, largely thanks to functional medical centers and innovative approaches.

Functional Medicine Takes an Integrative Approach to the Whole Patient

Functional medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease, including those with complex origins like MS. For patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), this type of medical care offers several benefits, including:

1. Personalized treatment: Functional medicine practitioners take a holistic approach to healthcare and work with patients to identify the potential underlying causes of their MS flares. They create personalized treatment plans that address the patient's unique needs, which can lead to better outcomes over the long haul.

2. Nutritional support: Diet and nutrition can play a significant role in managing MS symptoms. An integrative medical approach can help patients develop a personalized nutrition plan that can improve their overall health and help manage their symptoms without leaving them feeling deprived.

3. Comprehensive testing: These kinds of medical centers often use advanced testing methods to identify the underlying causes of MS flares, such as inflammation, gut dysbiosis, or nutrient deficiencies. This allows for a more targeted treatment plan for MS. Testing can also look at the patient's cellular health to identify issues that are preventing healing.

4. Integrative care: Practitioners who believe in integrative approaches often work in conjunction with other healthcare providers, including rheumatologists, neurologists, and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care. This is particularly important for people with complex conditions like MS where multiple bodily systems are affected.

5. Patient education: These clinics emphasize patient education and empowerment, providing patients with the tools and knowledge they need to manage their symptoms and improve their overall health. This helps patients feel that they have more control over their future during a time when they may be feeling that everything is spiraling out of control.

Overall, a functional medicine center can provide patients with MS with a more personalized, integrative approach to care that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of their condition.