High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of people around the world and is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it typically has no obvious symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. While medications are commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure, many people are now turning to holistic and natural approaches to support their cardiovascular health including chiropractic care. Revelation Chiropractic will explore the connection between chiropractic adjustments and high blood pressure, and how visiting a chiropractor might help you better manage your blood pressure and well-being.
What is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It’s measured using two numbers:
• Systolic pressure the top number: pressure during a heartbeat
• Diastolic pressure the bottom number: pressure between heartbeats
A normal reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Anything consistently above this range is considered elevated or high, depending on the severity.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
Factors that contribute to high blood pressure include:
• Chronic stress
• Poor diet and lack of exercise
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Genetics and age
• Underlying health issues
Chiropractic Care & High Blood Pressure
You might be wondering how spinal adjustments could possibly impact blood pressure, which seems like more of a cardiovascular issue. The answer lies in the nervous system and particularly, the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heartbeat, blood vessel constriction, and hormone release. When there’s misalignment in the spine, especially in the upper cervical region near the base of the skull, it can interfere with nerve signals that help regulate blood pressure. Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct these misalignments, allowing the nervous system to function more efficiently which may contribute to lowering blood pressure naturally.
How Chiropractors Approach High Blood Pressure
While chiropractic care isn’t a cure for hypertension, it can be a powerful complementary approach to traditional medical treatment. Here’s how a chiropractor might support a patient with high blood pressure:
Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors assess the spine for misalignments and perform gentle adjustments to restore alignment and improve nervous system communication. Focus is often placed on the upper cervical spine, but the entire spine may be evaluated depending on the individual.
Stress Reduction: Chiropractic care can help alleviate physical tension and nervous system stress both of which are linked to elevated blood pressure. Many patients report feeling more relaxed and mentally clear after an adjustment.
Lifestyle Guidance: Chiropractors often offer holistic advice on diet, exercise, posture, sleep, and stress management. These lifestyle adjustments, when combined with chiropractic care, can help support a healthier cardiovascular system.
Improved Circulation: When your spine and nervous system are functioning properly, blood flow throughout your body may improve. Better circulation helps reduce strain on your heart and can contribute to better blood pressure regulation.
When to See a Chiropractor for High Blood Pressure
If you are currently managing high blood pressure and are curious about natural support options, seeing a chiropractor may be worth considering especially if you’re dealing with neck stiffness, poor posture, or signs of nervous system stress.
Chiropractic Care & Therapy in Fort Collins, CO (Just Minutes from Loveland, Berthoud, Johnstown, Windsor and Wellington, Colorado)
If you are looking for a natural way to support your cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and enhance your body’s ability to heal itself, chiropractic care may be just what you need. Contact Revelation Chiropractic today.
