Heart Health and Chiropractic

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. In fact, every year 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. The good news is this can often be prevented. Everyone knows that maintaining a healthy diet and staying active are key factors in preventing heart disease, but what many aren’t aware of is that chiropractic treatment can be used to fight heart disease as well.

According to research done by the Palmer Chiropractic College, regular chiropractic adjustments may prevent heart attacks, reduce heart rate, relieve chest pain and support the cardiovascular system. Additional studies conducted at the college also investigated the effects of chiropractic treatment on the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in reference to an analysis of heart rate variability. The findings indicated that chiropractic adjustments do reduce pain and lower the participant’s average heart rate.

Chiropractic Treatment and Low Blood Pressure

A study conducted by the Department of Preventive Medicine at Rush University showed that chiropractic treatment might help lower blood pressure. The study showed that realignment of the atlas vertebrae, also known as the C1 vertebrae of the cervical spine, could help to lower systolic blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure felt along the arterial walls when the heart contracts. It is the top number in a blood pressure reading. The study indicated that there appears to be a link between compression of the vertebral artery and an unhealthy elevation in blood pressure. By realigning the C1 vertebrae in the neck, restriction along the arterial wall is relieved and you may experience a decrease in blood pressure.

Chiropractic care can help boost your energy, relieve a variety of musculoskeletal ailments, help with migraines, and strengthen the heart and cardiovascular system for both men and women. If you want to learn more about how chiropractic treatment can help protect you from heart disease, Performance Sports and Rehabilitation and Integrated Medicine has a knowledgeable staff ready to answer any questions. Contact us for an appointment to learn more.