Still Taking Antacids That Don't Work?
We find the real reason you have heartburn
— and fix it for good. No more guessing. No lifelong prescriptions.
You've Been Treating the Symptom, Not the Cause
If you've been living with heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD for months — or years — you already know that antacids and PPIs only work while you're taking them. The moment you stop, it comes right back.
That's because those medications don't answer the one question that matters: Why is this happening to you?
The truth is, chronic heartburn is almost always caused by something measurable and fixable — food sensitivities, gut bacteria imbalances, low stomach acid, stress hormones, or a combination of all of them. We run the right tests to find out.
Common Root Causes We Identify:
-
- H. pylori bacterial overgrowth
- Food sensitivities (often hidden)
- Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria)
- Adrenal stress dysregulation
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE)
- Gut microbiome imbalances
✅ 100's of Patients Helped
✅ Practicing Over 20 Years
✅ Advanced Diagnostic Testing
✅ Telehealth Available
HOW IT WORKS
Step 1
Discovery Call (Free)
We learn about your symptoms, history, and what you've already tried. No pressure, no obligation.
Step 2
Advanced Testing
We order the right functional medicine tests based on your specific symptoms — not a one-size-fits-all protocol.
Step 3
Your Personalized Plan
We deliver a clear, actionable plan to eliminate your triggers, heal your gut, and get you off medications for good.
We Use Testing Most Doctors Don't Offer
Stool Testing
A comprehensive gut microbiome analysis that identifies bacterial overgrowth, H. pylori, parasites, and digestive markers. Most conventional GI doctors skip this entirely.
Alletess 184 Food Sensitivity Panel
Tests your immune response to 184 common foods to identify hidden sensitivities that trigger chronic inflammation and reflux. This isn't a standard allergy test.
Adrenocortex / HU-Map (for Non-Menopausal Women)
Measures cortisol rhythms and stress hormones that directly affect gut function and acid production. Especially valuable for women experiencing hormonal-related digestive issues.
MEET YOUR DOCTORS
Dr. Mathew Bradshaw
DC, AFMCP
Dr. Matthew Bradshaw is a Kansas City–born, Colorado-schooled chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner who blends natural healing principles with advanced training through the Institute for Functional Medicine. After overcoming his own debilitating panic attacks and gut issues using a clean diet, targeted supplements, and lifestyle changes, he now loves helping patients who feel stuck in the traditional medical system finally get answers and lasting relief.
Hilary Rutledge
DC, DABCI
Dr. Hilary Rutledge is a Sierra Nevada Foothills native, longtime Wilmington resident, and chiropractor-turned-functional medicine doctor who has spent more than two decades helping patients get healthy naturally. After returning to school for four additional years of advanced functional medicine training, she now focuses on partnering with patients who feel unheard in the traditional system, using in-depth testing, personalized care plans, and plenty of real-life empathy as a mom, horse lover, and yoga enthusiast.
Ready to Find Out What's Really Causing Your Heartburn?
Your first step is a free 15-minute discovery call. We'll listen, answer your questions, and tell you honestly whether we can help.
Common Questions
Q: Is this covered by insurance?
We work with patients to maximize what's available. Many of our tests and consultations qualify for HSA/FSA reimbursement. We'll walk you through options on your discovery call.
Q: Do I have to stop my current medications to work with you?
No. We never tell patients to stop medications without a plan. We work alongside your current care and create a step-down strategy as your symptoms improve.
Q: Can I see you if I'm not local?
Yes. We offer telehealth consultations for patients throughout North Carolina. Testing kits are mailed directly to your home.