In this powerful episode of Field Notes, Dr. Rob Downey shares the deeply personal story that led him into functional medicine: a patient suffering from severe psoriatic arthritis, depression, and fatigue, who had exhausted all conventional treatment options.

Her transformation through botanical medicine and holistic care became a turning point in Dr. Rob’s career, igniting his passion to explore root-cause healing.

The episode explores how lifestyle interventions—like an anti-inflammatory diet, stress reduction, and gut repair—can reverse chronic disease and restore hope. Dr. Rob also unpacks the science of leaky gut and autoimmunity in accessible, empowering language that inspires both practitioners and patients alike.

This is an interview Dr. Rob recently recorded for The Case Studies Series, hosted by friend and colleague, Joe Rignola.

Key Takeaways:

• A case of psoriatic arthritis reversal using functional medicine became the catalyst for Dr. Rob’s career shift.
• The patient improved 50–75% through a botanical protocol (Boswellia, Curcumin, Quercetin) and naturopathic care.
• Chronic symptoms included depression, fatigue, pain, and functional disability—impacting every area of life.
• Functional medicine emphasizes systems-based healing: anti-inflammatory nutrition, stress management, and supplements.
• Dr. Rob explains leaky gut with vivid metaphors and highlights its role in triggering autoimmune diseases.