The ABCD’s of
A Professional Wellness Evaluation:
A
Anthropometrics + Body Composition
Anthropometric measurements include height, weight, and waist and hip circumference, as well as as the calculations of body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, and the determination of body composition utilizing bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Measuring anthropometrics and body composition in a functional medicine evaluation provides valuable insights into a patient’s health status and risk factors. By assessing metrics such as body fat percentage, muscle mass, waist-to-hip ratio, and overall body measurements, practitioners can identify imbalances that may impact metabolism, hormonal function, or cardiovascular health. This data helps tailor personalized nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle interventions, promoting healthier body composition, supporting weight management, and optimizing overall wellness for long-term health.
B
Biomarkers + Laboratory Findings
Specialty laboratory diagnostics are essential tools in a functional medicine evaluation. These tests provide a deeper understanding of underlying imbalances and dysfunctions, offering critical insights into factors like heart health, digestive function, hormonal balance, and nutrient deficiencies. By analyzing these markers, we can identify the root cause(s) of symptoms and chronic conditions, enabling us to create highly personalized treatment plans that address specific health concerns, improve overall wellness, and prevent future disease.
C
Clinical Indicators (Physical Examination)
A physical examination in a functional medicine evaluation provides a comprehensive assessment of the body's systems and how they work together. It helps identify subtle imbalances, dysfunctions, or areas of concern that may not yet manifest as symptoms but could lead to chronic health issues. By closely examining markers of physical function, we can tailor personalized treatment plans to restore optimal health, improve vitality, and prevent future conditions, all while addressing the root cause(s) of illness rather than just symptoms.
D
Diet + Lifestyle Assessment
Assessing diet and lifestyle factors like exercise, sleep, and mental health in a functional medicine evaluation is crucial for identifying underlying imbalances or deficiencies that may contribute to chronic conditions. By evaluating a patient’s dietary habits, nutrient intake, and lifestyle factors, we can uncover root causes of symptoms and design personalized nutrition plans. This approach not only supports overall health but also enhances the body’s ability to heal, improve energy levels, and prevent future health issues, leading to better long-term outcomes.
What to Expect: Preparing for Your Initial Evaluation
By following these instructions, you can help ensure that your physical examination is conducted smoothly and effectively.
Your cooperation is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to seeing you at your appointment.
Medical History:
To make the most of your visit, please ensure that all required paperwork is submitted 48 hours before your appointment. This allows us to focus entirely on your health history and physical examination from the moment you arrive. Late arrivals or incomplete paperwork may result in reduced consultation time to avoid impacting the next patient’s appointment. If you have any labs, imaging, or additional records you cannot email and wish to have them reviewed, please bring them with you to your initial examination. Be prepared to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, including any past surgeries, chronic conditions, or significant health events. This information is essential for providing you with personalized care.
Medication and Nutritional Supplementation:
If you are taking any medications, please bring them with you to your appointment. Include both prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any supplements or herbal remedies you may be using.
Arrival Time:
To honor your time and the high level of care we offer, we ask that you arrive promptly and prepared for your scheduled appointment with your phone turned off or set to silent mode to maintain the focused and distraction-free environment we strive to provide during your session. Our clinic operates in a single-room private studio with dedicated, non-overlapping patient appointments, ensuring your time is truly your own.
Diagnostic Imaging:
Following your initial evaluation, you may be referred out for imaging before we can complete your personalized care plan. X-rays are usually not performed to determine where to treat, as this is determined by specific components of your physical examination. Imaging may be needed to determine if any disease process, fracture, malformation, or spinal degeneration is present that would make your prescribed therapies contraindicated.
What to Wear:
Our thorough evaluation, including your examination, diagnostics, and therapies may require access to the skin's surface. Loose and comfortable clothing is recommended. Shorts, t-shirts, easily removable socks, and tennis shoes or flip-flops/sandals are preferred. This will allow for ease of movement during the examination and will enable your healthcare provider to conduct a thorough assessment. Keep jewelry and other accessories to a minimum as they may need to be removed and avoid excessively tight clothing or clothing with excessive buttons, zippers, or layers. Ensure you wear appropriate undergarments as you might need to change into a gown. You are welcome to bring an additional outfit to change into after the examination.
Avoid Makeup:
We kindly request that you refrain from wearing makeup to your appointment. Makeup can sometimes interfere with certain aspects of the examination, particularly those involving the skin or facial features. Your natural appearance will allow for a more accurate assessment.
Nail Care:
Please ensure that your nails are free from any nail polish or artificial enhancements, such as acrylic or gel nails. This is important as your healthcare provider may need to examine your nails for signs of health issues and signs of malnutrition.
Patient Identification:
Your Driver's License/ID will also be required to be scanned into our records.
Questions:
If you have any questions or concerns about the examination or your health in general, do not hesitate to ask during your informed consent at the beginning of the examination. Your healthcare provider is here to answer your questions and provide guidance.