Have you ever thought that a visit to the chiropractor could help manage your blood pressure? It turns out that chiropractic adjustments, especially those focused on the cervical (neck) area, can be quite helpful in this area.
Various studies2 have shown that these specific chiropractic treatments can significantly impact blood pressure levels, sometimes in ways similar to blood pressure medications. This is important because high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease.
- The Role of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) in Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is greatly affected by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), a part of the nervous system that works automatically, without us thinking about it. The ANS controls various body functions, including blood pressure, by using a network of pathways to process signals from the body and adjust things like heart rate and blood vessel tightness.
- How Chiropractic Care Influences the ANS
Chiropractic adjustments work to enhance these pathways. By fixing misalignments in the spine, especially in the neck area, chiropractors help clear up disruptions in the nervous system. This improves the communication between the body and the brain, possibly leading to a more balanced ANS activity. Better ANS function can lead to more controlled blood pressure.
- The Link with Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
Heart rate variability (HRV) is an important sign of improved ANS function. It shows how well the body can handle stress and manage blood pressure. Research indicates that chiropractic treatments can boost HRV, pointing to a more effective and balanced ANS.