Here is another option to consider. Whenever I see a new doc, whether for a new or existing matter, I ask if they are open to alternative treatments - that is, other than the usually used medications and/or surgery. Then I work with them (or not) based on their response.

For example, when I resisted opioid meds for chronic pain, it opened a discussion with my primary about pain management, and led to a pain management doc & therapists, a new mindset, and a new lifestyle where I deal with the pain using a variety of strategies.

My ortho surgeon (for 12 years) says his goal is not "just to operate" but to give each patient their best life. He got me into rigorous land and water PT after 5 hip replacements to get back complete mobility. When it was obvious I would eventually need several hand surgeries for arthritis, he help me manage with PT & injections until it was time to see a hand surgeon. Now he is watching all my replaced parts, and monitoring several other arthritic joints - keeping them going as long as possible with PT, being careful & occasional injections to calm major inflammatory storms.

These are examples of functional medicine approaches by mainstream providers. I believe the current wave of people suffering post Covid issues for which there are no known cures is going to lead to more open approaches to trying alternatives.

As patients, we learn that functional medicine is teamwork. The doctor and patient together must formulate and carry out a sometimes experimental, and often changing plan. The patient becomes more responsible for their own health, including diet and lifestyle changes. And mindset changes!

This is a process that is not always easy, can be time consuming and maybe even expensive. But if the end result is a better life - not perfect, and not pain-free, but improved, isn't it worthwhile?
Sue

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