Could a neck adjustment lower your blood pressure?

As reported by ABC News, a new study implies a link between hypertension and spinal misalignment.  The Journal of Human Hypertension this month reported on a University of Chicago study which studied the possible connection between an upper cervical spinal misalignment and high blood pressure.  A double-blind study was used to evaluate the connection.  To the researchers surprise, the patients who received chiropractic adjustments saw an average 17 point drop in their blood pressure.  To see a drop of this magnitude, patients typically require 2 blood pressure medications to achieve this kind of results.

Chiropractors have known of this correlation as the spinal cord and spinal nerves, especially in the upper cervical spine, operate like a switchboard which effects blood pressure, blood flow, as well as muscle tension.  When these tissues are irritated, the end result can be elevated blood pressure.

I am not implying that all blood pressure problems will respond to chiropractic adjustments.  It is worth exploring the possibility as all blood pressure medications have side effects and carry their own risks. 

If you are interested in exploring this further, call me at Thesier Chiropractic Clinic at  757-486-3222, or you can visit us on the web at www.thesierchiropractic.com , to see if you may be someone who might benefit from chiropractic adjustments.  We will work with you and your primary care physician to ensure that your condition is monitored properly and all appropriate actions are taken.

What exactly is a “whiplash”

What exactly is a “whiplash”?  It is a condition where the muscles and ligaments surrounding the spinal joints of the neck and back are forcibly overstretched beyond their normal range of motion, causing damage to the adjacent nerves, discs, muscles, bones and ligaments.  When we think “whiplash”, many people think they are only caused by car accidents.  The fact is any fall, or even long term repetitive movements, can cause the injury we know as “whiplash”. 

A better term for “whiplash” is the hyperflexion/hyperextension injury where the joints are forcibly moved beyond their normal range of motion and the supporting soft tissues are permanently injured.  The symptoms following a “whiplash” sometimes are immediate, or can take days, weeks or even months to develop.  Common symptoms following a “whiplash” injury are headaches, neck and arm pain, low back pain, leg pain or sciatica, ringing in the ears, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of concentration.  These symptoms can be very painful and debilitating and if not treated properly, the damage it causes can last a life time.

If you have suffered a “whiplash” type injury, either in a car accident or from a fall, it will help you to come to our office as soon as possible for a thorough examination.   We will then establish a treatment program which will help you restore normal joint function and minimize the long term damage caused from your injury.  Treatments can include spinal manipulation, various physical therapy modalities, exercises and soft tissue techniques.  The sooner you start care, the better your chances for a full recovery.  Located in the heart of Virginia Beach, just off the interstate, our chiropractic office is conveniently located for people from Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Chesapeake.  Call us today at 757-486-3222 to start care, or for more information, visit us on the web at:  www.thesierchiropractic.com  .