Hypertension is often asymptomatic, so it’s probably not bothering you right now. It’s pretty easy to take whatever medication you’ve been prescribed and wait for the numbers to subside. Of course, this viewpoint is the antithesis to health, and the antithesis to my entire approach to chiropractic care and overall wellness.
With your hypertension diagnosis, you have the opportunity to treat the disorder without medication (through chiropractic) and to make positive lifestyle changes that will benefit your health in a number of ways. With this combination approach, you can reduce your risk of stroke, hardened arteries (arthlerosclerosis), kidney damage, heart attack, congestive heart failure, vision problems, and erectile dysfunction.
Chiropractic Treatment for Hypertension
I have had success with many hypertensive patients through chiropractic treatment. I’d like to share the story of one such patient with you.
This patient visited our Red Bank office over the course of several weeks. Each time she came we took blood pressure readings prior to chiropractic adjustment. We would repeat this step immediately following her adjustment. On average, there was a decrease of 10mmHg—per session. After her initial course of chiropractic (which usually involves ten to twelve treatments) her blood pressure numbers were normal prior to adjustment.
You might be wondering exactly which mechanism makes chiropractic so effective with hypertension. Studies have shown that subluxations, or abnormalities, in the neck (cervical) spine are associated with increased blood pressure. The particular vertebra to blame is the Atlas vertebra, the topmost cervical vertebra of the spine. When the spine is realigned and in good working order, hypertension (and a number of other possible health conditions) can be addressed.
Personal Change
It’s up to you—the hypertensive patient—to decide to work toward better health. Weight loss, of course, is extremely important, as well as trying to get more exercise. Both of these actions will boost energy levels and benefit your cardiovascular system.
It’s a good idea to cut down on alcohol consumption (if this is excessive) and for smokers to quit. A healthy diet is a smart idea for everyone, and is especially crucial for those with high blood pressure.
Even if your hypertension has no obvious symptoms, treatment and lifestyles changes will benefit your physical and psychological well-being in ways that can be felt immediately.
Hypertension and Monmouth Spine and Rehabilitation Center
Our practice addresses overall posture; treatments focus on aligning the spine with gravity in order to promote overall health and reduce blood pressure. Our method is known as Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP), which looks at the total spinal condition of a patient, rather than focusing on specific spinal misalignments. What this means is that patients often see improvements not only in the condition they wish to treat, but also with other health issues.
Our office is filled with extremely competent practitioners, including physical therapists, acupuncturists, massage therapists, and, of course, chiropractors. We work toward creating a stress free, positive environment where you will find encouragement and answers to any questions you might have regarding your treatment or healthy lifestyle changes.
We would be happy to discuss your hypertension and how Monmouth Spine and Rehabilitation Center can help. Please call or visit our office for more information.
