Man sitting on bed experiencing fatigue and brain fog, representing unexplained chronic symptoms
Functional Medicine

Functional Medicine:
Root-Cause Care for Lifelong Health

If you've been told "everything looks normal" but you still don't feel well, you're not alone. Functional medicine asks why you're experiencing symptoms, not just what to prescribe.

Dr. Ian Strand
Reviewed by Dr. Ian Strand, DO, FAAMM
Board Certified, Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine
A4M Anti-Aging Medicine
Anti-Aging Medicine
Board Certified (ABAARM)
Recommended Packages
Total Wellness $999
Most comprehensive. Full hormone, metabolic, inflammatory, and nutrient panel.
Complete Hormone $699
Comprehensive hormonal and metabolic evaluation.
Every package includes:
  • Advanced bloodwork (50+ biomarkers)
  • 60-90 min evaluation with Dr. Strand
  • Personalized treatment handbook
  • Telehealth or in-clinic (Lacey, WA)
View Evaluation Packages
or
Schedule Free Consultation

When "Normal Labs" Don't Tell the Whole Story

Conventional medicine excels at acute care, but many patients with chronic, complex symptoms fall through the cracks. Standard bloodwork checks a narrow set of markers, and "normal" reference ranges are based on population averages rather than optimal health.

The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) estimates that the average patient with a chronic condition sees four physicians over five years before receiving an accurate diagnosis. Meanwhile, research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) shows that up to 75% of a physician's time is spent managing chronic disease, yet conventional models rarely investigate root causes.

Functional medicine changes that equation. Instead of asking "what drug matches this symptom?", we ask "what systems are out of balance, and why?"

Sources: Institute for Functional Medicine; JAMA, Chronic Disease Management; Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine outcomes data

Common Root Causes We Investigate

With prevalence among patients presenting with unexplained chronic symptoms

Hormonal imbalances Thyroid, adrenal, sex hormones
43%
Gut dysfunction Dysbiosis, permeability, SIBO
35-40%
Chronic inflammation CRP, homocysteine, oxidative stress
30-50%
Nutrient deficiencies Vitamin D, B12, magnesium, iron
30-40%
Insulin resistance Fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, HbA1c
34%
Toxic burden Heavy metals, mold, environmental chemicals
Varies
Sleep and stress dysregulation HPA axis, cortisol rhythm
25-40%
Immune imbalance Autoimmune markers, chronic infections
20-25%

Sources: IFM Clinical Practice Guidelines; Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism; American Gut Project

A 2019 Cleveland Clinic study found that 31% of functional medicine patients showed measurable improvement in their global health score, compared to 22% in conventional care.

Get Your Evaluation

A Science-Based Approach to Why You Feel the Way You Do

Functional medicine is a personalized, systems-based approach that treats the whole person, not just isolated symptoms. It draws on peer-reviewed research in genomics, epigenetics, systems biology, and nutritional science to build a complete picture of your health.

Rather than a 15-minute appointment focused on one complaint, Dr. Strand spends 60 to 90 minutes reviewing your full health timeline, family history, environmental exposures, diet, stress patterns, sleep, and comprehensive lab results. This allows us to identify connections that conventional medicine often misses.

From there, your treatment plan may include targeted nutrition, hormone optimization, gut healing protocols, detoxification support, peptide therapies, and prescriptions when clinically indicated. Everything is designed to help your body repair, regulate, and thrive on its own.

Sources: Institute for Functional Medicine; The Lancet, Systems Biology in Clinical Practice; Cleveland Clinic Functional Medicine Outcomes Study (2019)

Functional vs. Conventional

Functional Medicine (Our Approach)

  • Asks "why" before prescribing
  • 60-90 minute consultations
  • Comprehensive lab panels (50+ markers)
  • Personalized, multi-system treatment plans
  • Treats root causes, not just symptoms
  • Ongoing partnership and optimization

Conventional Medicine (Standard Care)

  • Treats symptoms with medications
  • 10-15 minute appointments
  • Basic labs with broad "normal" ranges
  • One-size-fits-all protocols
  • Siloed specialty referrals

What Your Evaluation May Explore

Dr. Strand is board certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine through the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M). Every evaluation is tailored to your symptoms, history, and goals.

Hormone & Adrenal Health

Comprehensive testing of sex hormones, thyroid (full panel, not just TSH), cortisol, DHEA-S, and insulin to identify endocrine dysfunction driving fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes.

Gut Microbiome & Digestion

Investigating dysbiosis, intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"), SIBO, and food sensitivities that contribute to systemic inflammation, brain fog, and immune dysfunction.

Inflammation & Immune Balance

Measuring CRP, homocysteine, ESR, and cytokine markers to identify chronic low-grade inflammation linked to autoimmune conditions, cardiovascular risk, and accelerated aging.

Nutrient Status & Detox Pathways

Testing vitamin D, B12, folate, magnesium, iron, zinc, and markers of methylation and detoxification capacity. Deficiencies here drive fatigue, cognitive decline, and poor recovery.

Metabolic & Cardiovascular Risk

Going beyond standard cholesterol: fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, HbA1c, advanced lipid panels, and lipoprotein(a) to catch metabolic dysfunction years before it becomes disease.

Sleep, Stress & HPA Axis

Evaluating cortisol rhythm, neurotransmitter precursors, and lifestyle patterns that undermine sleep quality and stress resilience, two pillars of long-term health.

Your Functional Medicine Evaluation

Your journey starts with a comprehensive evaluation designed to uncover exactly what's happening inside your body.

01

Choose Your Evaluation Package

Select the evaluation that fits your goals. Our Total Wellness ($999) and Complete Hormone ($699) packages are the most popular for functional medicine patients. Each includes advanced lab work, a consultation with Dr. Strand, and your personalized handbook.

02

Complete Advanced Lab Testing

Walk into any Labcorp location with your requisition. We test far beyond standard panels: full thyroid, sex hormones, adrenal markers, inflammatory markers, metabolic indicators, and nutrient levels.

03

Consult with Dr. Strand

Spend 60-90 minutes reviewing your results together via telehealth or in-clinic. Dr. Strand connects the dots between your labs, symptoms, and health history to build your personalized treatment plan.

04

Begin Your Plan

Start your membership for ongoing care. Your plan may include nutritional therapy, targeted supplementation, hormone optimization, peptide protocols, and prescriptions when needed. Regular follow-ups ensure continuous progress.

Recommended Packages

For functional medicine patients

Total Wellness $999

Most comprehensive. Full hormone, metabolic, inflammatory, and nutrient panels.

Complete Hormone $699

Full hormonal and metabolic evaluation with optimization plan.

Every package includes:

  • Advanced bloodwork (50+ biomarkers)
  • 60-90 minute evaluation with Dr. Strand
  • Personalized treatment handbook
  • Telehealth or in-office
View All Packages

Optional Primary Care+ membership from $135/mo

or
Schedule Free Consultation

Functional Medicine Is Ideal For People Who Want To

Understand the "why" behind their symptoms, not just get another prescription

Prevent chronic illness rather than wait for a diagnosis to react to

Take an active role in their long-term health and longevity

Restore energy, clarity, and vitality from the inside out

Work with a physician who listens and spends real time on their case

Get off the referral treadmill and find answers in one coordinated plan

Common Symptoms That Bring Patients to Us

Persistent fatigue
Brain fog
Unexplained weight gain
Digestive issues
Anxiety or depression
Chronic pain
Sleep problems
Hormonal imbalances
Frequent illness
Hair loss or skin issues
Low libido
Autoimmune flares

What Our Patients Say

5.0 (12 reviews)

He explains things clearly and thoroughly, never rushing, and makes sure you understand both the "why" and the "what" behind your care.

L
Lisa McLain
3 months ago

I'm 75 years old and have dozens of doctors in my life. Dr Strand has been a life-line for me. I can not overstate this doctor's ability.

L
Lonnie Williams
3 months ago

I've noticed significant improvements in my energy, mood, and overall well-being. I've referred multiple people to this clinic.

T
Travis H
8 months ago

Four months later, I've dropped over 30 lbs and feel like I'm genuinely on the right trajectory.

A
Angelo R.
5 months ago

Dr. Strand makes the process simple and easy to follow. He takes the time to walk you through every step.

D
Destine Shah
8 months ago

Broke down and explained every piece of the process to make sure I had a good understanding and felt comfortable.

B
Brian Baxter
2 months ago

This is my fourth TRT provider and the first one where I feel I receive the necessary attention and the medical knowledge to optimize my results.

H
Holden B.
2 years ago

The detail he goes through with you on your lab work is awesome!

J
Joel Rouse
2 years ago

I don't think I have had a health care professional actually listen to me in at least the last 20 years.

J
Jamie Lilly
1 week ago

Great experience with Asymmetric Health.

D
Dustin Newman
1 year ago

The doctor explained everything clearly, discussed my options and answered all my questions.

R
ReactionDC2
3 weeks ago

Doctor is knowledgeable and cares about my health.

B
BigFootBuds PNW
3 weeks ago

Frequently Asked Questions About Functional Medicine

What is functional medicine?

Functional medicine is a science-based approach that focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of disease rather than just managing symptoms. It uses advanced lab testing, detailed health histories, and personalized treatment plans that address your unique biochemistry.

How is functional medicine different from conventional medicine?

Conventional medicine typically treats symptoms with medications. Functional medicine asks why those symptoms exist in the first place. It looks at the interconnected systems in your body, including hormones, gut health, immune function, nutrient status, and toxic burden, to find and address underlying dysfunction.

What conditions does functional medicine treat?

Functional medicine is effective for chronic fatigue, brain fog, digestive issues, autoimmune conditions, hormonal imbalances, metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation, unexplained weight gain, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, and symptoms that don't fit a clear diagnosis.

What kind of lab testing is involved?

We run comprehensive panels that go far beyond a standard annual physical. This may include full thyroid panels (not just TSH), sex hormones, adrenal markers, inflammatory markers (CRP, homocysteine), insulin and metabolic markers, nutrient levels (vitamin D, B12, magnesium, iron), and specialized testing when indicated.

Do you offer telehealth for functional medicine?

Yes. All functional medicine consultations and follow-ups are available via telehealth for patients anywhere in Washington state. Lab work can be completed at any Labcorp location. Our clinic is in Lacey, WA, serving patients across Olympia, Thurston County, and statewide.

Does insurance cover functional medicine?

We are a direct-pay practice and do not bill insurance. Our transparent pricing often compares favorably to traditional copays, deductibles, and specialist referral costs. Many patients use HSA or FSA funds to cover their care.

How long before I see results?

Many patients notice improvements in energy, sleep, and mental clarity within 4-6 weeks. More complex conditions like autoimmune issues or gut healing may take 3-6 months. Your timeline depends on what we find and how your body responds to treatment.

Stop Chasing Symptoms. Start Finding Answers.

This is medicine designed with you and for you. Personalized, proactive, and rooted in partnership. Schedule a free consultation or choose your evaluation package to begin.

Lacey, WA clinic. Telehealth available statewide across Washington.