Genetic Testing & Interpretation

Overview

Are you experiencing symptoms related to a genetic condition but are not sure if you have the gene for it? A genetic testing and interpretation session with us might be just what you need for overall wellness. Learn more about the benefits of genetic testing and its usefulness in integrative medicine.

What is Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing looks to find changes in your DNA that are responsible for the incidence of disease that you may be currently experiencing. It can also be used to determine whether a patient is at risk for developing or passing on a disease, such as dementia or breast cancer, as they age.

What are the Different Types of Genetic Testing?

There are several different types of genetic testing, including:

  • Predictive testing, which is used to detect changes in DNA that may occur later on in life.
  • Diagnostic testing, which is used to confirm whether physical symptoms are related to a suspected genetic or chromosomal condition
  • Carrier testing, which identifies genetic mutations that can lead to genetic disorders if present in two copies. This type of testing is used particularly in pregnant patients
  • Pharmacogenomic testing, which offers insight into the most effective medications and dosages for your body

What Are the Benefits of Genetic Testing?

There are multiple benefits to undergoing genetic testing. A certified professional known as a geneticist or genetic counselor can help carry out and interpret the results of your genetic test. The benefits of genetic testing and interpretation are:

  • Knowing your genotype can prevent harmful side effects when starting a new drug
  • Genetic testing can help detect the incidence of chronic diseases such as breast cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, type II diabetes, and dementia. Applying the principles of integrative medicine to treat or manage the underlying symptoms can lead to improved wellness
  • Improve your diet
  • Increase your level of physical activity to lower or neutralize the incidence of heart-related diseases

Research and clinical studies show that lifestyle changes and the implementation of integrative medicine and therapies can be more effective than standard drug therapy in treating chronic diseases like type II diabetes.

What to Expect During a Genetic Testing & Interpretation Session

If you’ve never been to a genetic testing and interoperation session, you might be wondering what to expect. A geneticist or trained genetic counselor at Chris Strickland will begin by asking you a comprehensive set of questions to determine your current health, including detailed family history, chronic pain, medications, and overall lifestyle. From there, a genetic sample will be taken—this can be a blood sample, but also saliva, skin, and amniotic fluid are also common sample types.

Your DNA is then sent to the lab, where it will be sequenced and processed according to the type of genetic testing ordered by your physician. Your DNA will be analyzed, and a follow-up appointment is scheduled where the results are interpreted by your doctor. Based on these results, a plan of treatment using various integrative therapies will be created and can last for several weeks, depending on your symptoms and disease.

For more information about genetic testing and interpretation, contact Chris Strickland at (706) 769-9779.


Resources:

  • Fluoride

    For decades, fluoride has been held in high regard by the dental community as an important mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, which thereby helps to prevent decay of tooth structures. Water fluoridation is endorsed by nearly every major health and safety-related organization in the world. Communities

    Read more
  • Fluoride Facts

    For decades, fluoride has been held in high regard by the dental community as an important mineral that is absorbed into and strengthens tooth enamel, thereby helping to prevent decay of tooth structures. In nearly every U.S. community, public drinking supplies are supplemented with sodium fluoride

    Read more
  • Fluorosis

    Fluorosis is a condition in which your body has been exposed to too much fluoride. In normal doses (typically found in a safe drinking water system and an ADA-approved toothpaste), fluoride is a healthy compound that promotes strong teeth, which has the ability to fight cavities and other problems. But

    Read more
  • Foot Cysts Removal

    Foot cysts, also known as ganglion cysts, are fluid-filled sacs that commonly develop along tendons or joints in the foot. While often benign, these cysts can cause discomfort, pain, or limited mobility, prompting individuals to seek treatment. In this article, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, and

    Read more
  • Foot Self Exam

    Maintaining foot health is crucial for overall well-being, as our feet bear the weight of our bodies and support us through various activities. Conducting regular foot self-exams is a proactive way to monitor for potential issues, catch them early, and ensure optimal foot function. In this article, we'll

    Read more
  • Foot Stretching

    Foot stretching is a fundamental aspect of maintaining foot health and promoting mobility. Our feet bear the weight of our bodies and undergo considerable stress throughout the day, making them susceptible to tightness, stiffness, and discomfort. Incorporating regular foot stretching exercises into your

    Read more
  • Foot Therapy

    Foot therapy, also known as podiatric physical therapy or physiotherapy for the foot, is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on improving foot health, function, and mobility. This article explores the importance of foot therapy, common conditions treated with foot therapy, therapeutic

    Read more
  • General Dentistry

    The first line of defense against oral health problems In general dentistry, the dentist is the primary care provider for patients of all ages and is responsible for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of conditions, disorders and diseases affecting the teeth, gums and maxillofacial

    Read more
  • Glossary

    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A Amalgam - Material made from mercury and other alloy mixtures used to restore a drilled portion of a tooth. Anesthesia - Medications used to relieve pain. Anterior teeth - Front teeth. Also called incisors and cuspids. Arch - The upper or lower

    Read more
  • Grafts

    Soft tissue grafts are sometimes performed to treat gum disease, or correct other abnormalities. The procedure involves taking gum tissue from the palate or another donor source to cover an exposed root in order to even the gum line and reduce sensitivity. Periodontal procedures are available to

    Read more
  • Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

    Gingivitis is the medical term for early gum disease, or periodontal disease. In general, gum disease can be caused by long-term exposure to plaque, the sticky but colorless film on teeth that forms after eating or sleeping. Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria

    Read more
  • Headache and Migraine Management

    Headaches and migraines are common conditions that cause pain in the head, face, or upper neck area. While headaches are often mild and temporary, migraines are a more severe form of headache that can last for hours or even days. Types of Headaches There are several types of headaches, including tension

    Read more
  • Hearing Aid Batteries and Accessories

    Hearing aids have become invaluable tools in enhancing the auditory experience for individuals with hearing loss. Behind the sleek exteriors of these devices lie essential components, including batteries and accessories, which play a crucial role in the seamless functioning of hearing aids. In this exploration,

    Read more
  • Hearing Aid Programming

    Hearing aids have transformed the landscape of auditory care, offering a lifeline to those with hearing impairments. Behind the scenes of these small devices lies a crucial process known as hearing aid programming, a personalized and intricate adjustment that tailors the performance of the device to

    Read more
  • Heat vs. Cold Therapy

    The Role of Temperature in Pain Management Temperature-based therapies, specifically heat and cold therapy, have been used for centuries to manage pain. These non-invasive, cost-effective treatments can provide relief for various types of pain, from muscle strains to arthritis. Heat Therapy: A Warm Solution

    Read more
  • Implants

    Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as

    Read more

Contact Us

Send Us An Email

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed