Where did you grow up?
That's a tough one! I was born in Long Beach California and later moved to Utah when I was 8 years old. I lived in Utah on and off until I finished high school, then moved up to Washington state where I resided for 18 years. I moved back to Utah in 2018.
How did you get into functional medicine?
My mom was a registered nurse, so I grew up with a very conventionally minded understanding of medicine. However, after I completed my undergraduate degree I decided to go on a "fishing trip" up in Alaska for 3 months. Little did I know that I would be working on a factory ship out at sea for 16 hours a day, seven days a week. I consequently developed carpal tunnel syndrome in both of my wrists. I opted for surgery at the time, because that is what my doctor said would be best and I trusted him. Unfortunately, I had a prolonged healing response that dragged on for several months. After going to specialist after specialist without any relief, I eventually found my way to a naturopathic doctor. This is when I fell in love with naturopathic medicine, which is basically the grandfather of functional medicine--in my not so humble opinion. :)
How would you describe what you specialize in?
What I tell patients is that I typically see people who have already been to several doctors and specialist, but they tend to have "normal" labs or imaging, don't know what else to do, or they are told that it is psychological (this last one especially breaks my heart btw). So by the time that people come to see me, I am often their last stop in treating their complex chronic illness. At the root of these issues may include mold toxicity, Lyme disease, breast implant illness, SIBO, and much more.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
I love helping people who have been struggling with chronic health issues for many years and finally being able to help them. I love building lasting relationships with my patients. I love giving them tools so that they feel empowered. I love teaching patients how to be their own advocate for their health and taking their power back. When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing for fun?
I really love a lot of circus activities, i.e. juggling, unicycling, tight rope, fire spinning, and hula hooping. I also enjoy learning and practicing wilderness survival, hiking, camping, and spending time with my family. You could give your patients one piece of advice, what would it be?
Learn to listen to the whispers of your body before they become screams.
To learn more about Dr. Postma and his specialities at Rising Health Specialty Clinic, please click the button below.