In functional medicine, we look at illness as a result of a failure of body systems. We don’t look at individual symptoms and treat them in isolation. So for example, if you have high blood pressure, of course we want your blood pressure to normalize.   But we also want to understand what is the underlying cause of the problem and work from there. We look at three body systems: the neuro-endocrine system (that means your brain and your hormones), the digestive system, and the detoxification system. Most often, someone become stressed due to an emotional or spiritual disconnect; perhaps a divorce or death in the family or working 10 years at a job they hate. That stress damages the neuro-endocrine system; stress hormones like cortisol increase while thyroid hormone and sex hormone levels drop. Many people experience a depletion or burnout of neurotransmitters, which are the chemicals in the brain that keep us happy and motivated. As a part of the stress response, the digestive tract tends to weaken and we develop “leaky gut”, food reactions and sometimes even digestive tract infections with bacteria, parasites or yeast overgrowth. If this goes on for long enough, the detoxification system falters and we accumulate a large burden of toxic chemicals and dangerous heavy metals in the body.

At Sturges Chiropractic & Sports Medicine, we test for each one of these body systems. We will test your neuro-endocrine system, your digestive system and your detoxification system so we can determine where your specific problem is coming from and develop a comprehensive plan to correct each body system. What we find is that when all three body systems are working properly, the symptoms patients are experiencing clear up.

 

The five most treated conditions in our clinic include:

Fatigue

Weight Gain

Digestive Problems

Hormone Imbalances

Depression and Anxiety

Frequently Asked Questions:

How is Dr. Sturges' methods different from other providers?

Dr. Sturges addresses the five chronic symptoms of weight gain, fatigue, depression, hormone imbalances and digestive problems that are typically misunderstood by conventional medicine practitioners who attempt to address the symptoms, not the root cause.  Our method is a lab-based natural health protocol that tests an identifies dysfunction in the three core body systems (hormonal, digestive and detoxification).  Typically these 3 main systems have become compromised long BEFORE the symptoms appeared.  The lab tests are used to determine the required natural support needed to rebalance your body back to its normal state.

What types of labs are required?

Depending on the type of test, samples typically required are saliva, urine or stool. All tests are completed by the client through easy test kits that are self-administered in the comfort of your own home. Additional bloodwork may be ordered through Quest Diagnostics.

How many labs are required per person?

The number of labs recommended will depend on your individual situation including the number of issues you struggle with and the length of time you have been experiencing them, but the range is 1-4 lab tests.

How long does it take to get results?

Results vary by each person. Some people feel dramatic improvement within the first month, others may take a bit longer. Our standard programs are for a minimum of 3- 6 months. Remember, your body didn’t fail overnight. Years of stress and illness takes its toll and it takes a proper amount of time to restore. On average it takes one month of repair for each year you’ve suffered from a specific problem.

What supplements are used with these protocols?

Depending on the results of your lab tests, Dr. Sturges uses different combinations of DHEA, pregnenolone, and all of the herbs, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals required for recovery.  Nutritional and lifestyle coaching are also a critical part of these protocols.

What are the fees for consultations?

• New patient initial consultation: 1 hour for $250
• Lab result consultation: 30-60 minutes is included in initial consultation fee
• All follow up consultations are scheduled in 15 minute intervals: $25.00 per 15 minutes used

How much do the lab tests cost?

Depending on the lab test, the cost is $120-$300 per lab kit. You can always start a program just by ordering a single test.

How much do the supplement programs cost after lab work?

Depending on the protocol created by Dr. Sturges, the estimated cost starts at approximately $150 per month and depends on the length of the program.

What is your return policy on supplements?

Pre-approval is required on all returns. Refrigerated items cannot be returned.
15% restock fee of purchase price less shipping and handling may be refunded on unopened and non-refrigerated items.
No supplement returns will be accepted after 30 days on all regularly stocked items.
Special orders cannot be returned.
Prepaid tests can be returned for credit within 3 months of purchase

What types of payment are accepted?  Are there any payment plans available?

Methods of payment are: personal check, Visa, MasterCard or American Express.  HSA accounts may be used, check with individual plans.  No payment plans are available at this time.

 Does my insurance cover functional medicine consultations, testing or supplements?

Our office does not bill medical  insurance for functional medicine services as they are not covered by most plans.