While you might be familiar with the fact that a chiropractor can ease your back and neck pain, would you be surprised to find that these medical professionals can contribute to the health of your heart as well? Patients are often uneducated when it comes to understanding the connection between chiropractic care and heart health.
Taking the time to learn how an adjustment can influence the following three areas of cardiac health will allow you to more fully take advantage of the health benefits your chiropractor can offer in the future.
1. Reduced Systolic Blood Pressure
Hypertension is a serious medical condition associated with a high systolic blood pressure. The top number in your blood pressure reading (the systolic number) should be below 120. If your systolic blood pressure begins to rise, you might want to see your chiropractor.
A skilled chiropractor has the ability to adjust the first cervical, or C1, vertebra which sits at the base of your skull. This vertebra can put pressure on the vertebral artery when it is out of alignment, making it difficult for blood to pass through. Putting the C1 vertebra back into alignment can relieve the pressure on the vertebral artery, lowering your systolic blood pressure and your risk of developing lasting hypertension.
2. Reduced Diastolic Blood Pressure
When your doctor reads your blood pressure, the bottom number is known as your diastolic blood pressure. Just as a misaligned C1 vertebra can increase your systolic blood pressure by collapsing the walls of the vertebral artery, this same vertebra can also increase your diastolic blood pressure.
If your diastolic number is greater than 80, you could be at risk for developing a higher systolic blood pressure. Avoiding the risks associated with hypertension is made simpler when you rely on chiropractic care to help you lower your diastolic blood pressure.
3. Reduced Heart Rate
Lowering your heart rate can extend your life by allowing your cardiovascular system to function more effectively. Many people are surprised to find that heart rate is actually regulated by a cranial nerve known as the vagus nerve.
When the cranial vertebrae in your neck are out of alignment, this nerve can get pinched or kinked. As a result, your heart rate could increase. Receiving regular chiropractic adjustments will help ensure that your cranial vertebrae stay put, and that your heart rate can be regulated properly.
Relying on your chiropractor to help you improve your cardiovascular health is another way to take advantage of the services that medical professionals like Hidden Valley Chiropractic provide.
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