What Does Functional Medicine Mean?
Healthcare is shifting away from symptom-based care and toward a more personalized, whole-body approach. Many people searching for long-term wellness are asking the same question: what does functional medicine mean, and how does it differ from traditional care? At URBAN Medical in Gilbert, AZ, and Fishersville, VA, functional medicine is used to help our patients better understand their health and take an active role in improving it.
Rather than focusing on isolated concerns, functional medicine looks at how systems within the body work together. This approach allows providers to create care plans that are tailored, proactive, and centered on long-term wellness instead of short-term fixes.
What Is Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine is a patient-centered model of care that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of health concerns. Instead of treating symptoms in isolation, providers evaluate how genetics, lifestyle, environment, and internal systems influence overall health.
This approach recognizes that no two patients are the same. By understanding how different factors interact within the body, functional medicine supports more targeted and meaningful wellness strategies.
Aspects Of Functional Medicine
This approach to patient health is guided by several core principles that shape how care is delivered. Together, these elements create a more comprehensive and individualized experience for patients.
Root Cause Focused
Functional medicine prioritizes understanding why symptoms occur rather than simply managing them. Providers assess patterns and imbalances that may be contributing to health concerns, allowing care plans to be built around resolving underlying issues instead of masking them.
Comprehensive Treatments
Functional medicine supports a wide range of wellness-focused treatments designed to improve overall function and quality of life. Rather than addressing concerns in isolation, care may include support for hormone balance, metabolic function, energy levels, weight management, skin and hair health, and sexual wellness. By taking a coordinated approach, functional medicine helps align multiple areas of health to support more sustainable, long-term results.
Personalized Care
Each care plan is developed based on the individual, not a standard protocol. Functional medicine considers personal health history, goals, and lifestyle factors to create strategies that align with each patient’s needs and priorities.
Preventative Approach
Functional medicine emphasizes prevention and early intervention. By identifying imbalances before they develop into larger issues, patients can take steps to support long-term health, vitality, and resilience.
Functional Medicine Treatments at URBAN Medical
URBAN Medical offers a range of functional medicine services designed to support wellness at every stage of life. Each treatment is selected with the goal of improving function, confidence, and overall quality of life.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy: Helps address imbalances that can affect energy, mood, metabolism, and overall well-being. Treatment plans are customized to support healthy hormone levels for both men and women.
Peptide Therapy: Supports cellular communication within the body. It is often used to promote recovery, optimize performance, and support overall wellness by working with the body’s natural processes.
Medically-Managed Weight Loss Program: Focuses on sustainable results rather than quick fixes. These plans are designed to support metabolic health, appetite regulation, and long-term weight management under medical supervision.
IV Hydration: Delivers hydration and essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream for efficient absorption. This treatment supports energy levels, immune health, recovery, and overall vitality.
Wellness Injections: B12 injections support energy and metabolic function, NAD+ injections promote cellular energy and cognitive support, and our Kenalog Allergy Shot helps reduce inflammation associated with seasonal allergies. These treatments offer targeted support with minimal downtime.
PRP Hair Restoration: Uses the body’s own growth factors to support hair health and density. This option is designed for individuals experiencing thinning hair who want a natural, non-surgical approach.
Sexual Health Treatments: URBAN Medical offers sexual health treatments for both men and women designed to support intimacy, confidence, and sexual well-being. Services include men’s health treatments such as penile enhancement and erectile dysfunction care, as well as female sexual wellness treatments that address changes in comfort, sensation, and arousal. These options help patients feel more confident and supported in their sexual health.
The URBAN Difference
URBAN Medical takes a thoughtful, patient-focused approach to functional medicine. Care is never rushed, and treatment plans are built with intention and clarity. Patients receive guidance from experienced providers who prioritize education, transparency, and measurable outcomes.
With locations in Gilbert, AZ, and Fishersville, VA, URBAN Medical combines medical expertise with a modern wellness environment. The focus is on helping patients feel informed, supported, and confident in their care decisions.
Your Wellness is a Priority with URBAN Medical
So, what does functional medicine mean? Understanding the answer to this question is the first step toward taking control of your health. This approach offers a clear path to personalized, preventative, and comprehensive care that supports long-term wellness.
Are you ready to explore functional medicine options tailored to your goals? Contact us today to book a consultation with us here at URBAN Medical in Gilbert, AZ, and Fishersville, VA.
Article written by Jordan White Founder of URBAN Medical
Content reviewed by Dr. Carey Nease MD