Desperate need for functional medicine recommendations
I need to find a functional medicine doctor - ideally with an M.D. - to treat a recurring G.I. problem that my highly-lauded gastroenterologists can't help. I've read that integrative medicine is different from functional medicine, but I don't quite understand how. If you have experience with functional medicine - good or bad - I would very much appreciate reading about your experience. I'm uneasy when it comes to taking Chinese medicine or homeopathy. I don't want to fall into the hands of alternative practitioners who promise the moon and aren't well trained, so I need as much advice as you can offer.
Thank you!
Sep 3, 2024
Parent Replies
Dr. Myrto Ashe is an excellent functional medicine doctor and MD. I used her many years ago to treat a gut infection that left me completely debilitated, and that Western Medicine basically derided as a problem in my head. She has gotten much more expensive since I used her, so I don't know whether she will be accessible to you, but I wanted to send off her name as a recommendation so that at least you can explore the option. Her website is: https://www.unconventionalmedicine.net/
I highly recommend reading Brave New Medicine by Cynthia Li, MD. The author is a local functional medicine doctor with personal experience with autoimmune disease. The book was a game-changer for me when I was going through challenging health issues. You'll learn more about functional medicine in general, and her story and approach in particular.
Dr Myrto Ashe has lots of experience working as a conventional MD before transitioning her work to Functional Medicine. She is very knowledgeable and personable.
https://www.unconventionalmedicine.net
You can try Hill Park Integrative Medicine in Sebastopol.My dear friend had years of issues finally diagnosed as SIBO and other related gut issues. It' a marathon, not a sprint when it comes to these complex medical issues.
I used them for osteopathic treatments which were insanely beneficial fo my overall health.
No insurance is accepted, but you can submit a Supebill if you have a PPO insurance plan, i believe.
Good luck
I would check out Integrative Wellness Arts (InWella), which is fully virtual. I had excellent success with them healing my gut. I hadn't previously associated so many of my other issues with poor gut health, and they provided a clear and effective plan. They leave no stone unturned.
I'm sorry you're experiencing this. I've had a great experience with Lorena Hillman, M.D. at Sutter Integrated Health & Healing. I was having a health issue my conventional doctors weren't able to help me with. After a few sessions with Dr Hillman we uncovered the problem and now with a pretty simple adjustment I'm so much better.
https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/holistic-integrative-medicine/institute-health-healing
Best of luck