Chiropractic and Hypertension

Chiropractic and Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a growing concern in the United States. It affects 1 in 3 adults, about 68 million people. This condition significantly raises the risk for heart disease and stroke. According to the American Heart Association, hypertension is when blood pressure reads 140/90 mmHg or higher. When unmanaged, it can cause severe health issues. Thankfully, hypertension can be treated or even prevented with lifestyle changes, medication, and alternative therapies.

This article will explore how hypertension affects the body. We will also discuss chiropractic care and its benefits, along with other medical and lifestyle approaches.

The Health Risks of Untreated Hypertension

Hypertension is one of the leading causes of health issues in the U.S. It leads to almost 11 million patient visits each year. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says hypertension is a major risk for stroke. Stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or gets blocked, causing damage.

Hypertension can also lead to:

  • Heart Attack: When blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle.
  • Congestive Heart Failure: The heart can’t pump enough blood, leading to fatigue and shortness of breath.
  • Kidney Disease: High blood pressure damages kidneys over time, which can lead to failure.
  • Peripheral Vascular Disease: Narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to the arms and legs, causing pain and mobility issues.

Untreated hypertension can also cause dementia, atrial fibrillation, and vision loss. It is crucial to control this condition for long-term health.

Chiropractic Care and Hypertension: The Evidence

Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce hypertension by allowing the nervous system to function better. Proper body alignment helps reduce stress and tension, lowering blood pressure.

Several studies support the benefits of chiropractic care. One case study reviewed a 68-year-old woman with hypertension. After four chiropractic visits, her blood pressure improved significantly. Another study followed a 25-year-old woman with high blood pressure. After twelve chiropractic treatments, her blood pressure dropped by 20 points.

A study involving African Americans with stage 1 hypertension showed a similar result. After 23 visits, patients experienced a significant drop in blood pressure. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing hypertension.

Medical Treatments for Hypertension

Medical doctors often treat hypertension with medications and lifestyle changes. Common medications include:

  • Diuretics: These reduce excess sodium and water in the body, lowering blood pressure.
  • Beta Blockers: These slow the heart rate, making blood flow easier through arteries.
  • ACE Inhibitors: These relax blood vessels, reducing resistance and lowering pressure.

Although effective, medications can have side effects like fatigue and dizziness. The cost of medications varies and can become expensive for long-term use.

The Role of Diet and Nutrition in Managing Hypertension

Diet plays an essential role in managing high blood pressure. Many people with hypertension consume too much sodium. Reducing sodium intake can lower blood pressure significantly. Increasing nutrients like magnesium and fiber also helps.

The DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) has proven to lower blood pressure. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy. Avoiding processed foods and choosing fresh ingredients are crucial steps.

Foods high in potassium, like bananas and sweet potatoes, are especially good for controlling blood pressure.

Lifestyle Changes to Combat Hypertension

Exercise and lifestyle changes are vital for controlling hypertension. Physical activities such as walking or biking strengthen the heart and improve blood circulation. Yoga can also help by reducing stress and lowering blood pressure.

Managing stress is equally important. Long-term stress can raise blood pressure and lead to other health problems. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and physical activity help reduce stress.

Workplace wellness programs can also reduce blood pressure. Employers promoting health and stress management can improve employee well-being and productivity.

Next Steps To Addressing Hypertension

Hypertension is serious, but it’s manageable. Through chiropractic care, diet, and stress management, blood pressure can very commonly be controlled. Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial, especially for those with family histories of hypertension.

Here at New Spring Chiropractic we are committed to helping other adopting healthier habits. Call us today if you are wanting to discuss how chiropractic can help you too!

References

  1. Earl, G. and Henstenburg, J. 2012. Dietary approaches to hypertension: A call to pharmacists to promote lifestyle changes. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 52 (5), pp. 637–645.
  2. Ili\’C, K., Obradovi\’C, N. and Vujasinovi\’C-Stupar, N. 2013. The Relationship Among Hypertension, Antihypertensive Medications, and Osteoporosis: A Narrative Review. Calcified tissue international, 92 (3), pp. 217–227.
  3. Nhlbi.nih.gov. 2013. NIH Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. [online] Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/ [Accessed: 21 Nov 2013].
  4. Your GuideTo Lowering Your Blood Pressure with DASH. 2006. Bethesda: NHLBI.
  5. Magnum, K., Partna, L., Vavrek, D. Spinal Manipulation for the Treatment of Hypertension: A Systematic Qualitative Literature Review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Vol 35 (3) Mar-Apr. 2013 p.235-243
  6. McMasters, K.L., Wang, J., York, J., Hart, J., Neely, C., Delain, R.J. Blood pressure changes in African American patients receiving chiropractic care in a teaching clinic: A preliminary study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 12 (2)
  7. Burt, V. et al. Prevalence of Hypertension in the US Adult Population. American Heart Association. 1988-1991
  8. “High Blood Pressure.”  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  May 2, 2013.  November 18, 2013.  <http://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/>
  9. “What is High Blood Pressure?”  American Heart Association.  March 1, 2013.  November 18, 2013.  <http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/AboutHighBloodPressure/What-is-High-Blood-Pressure_UCM_301759_Article.jsp>

10. http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/107555303765551589?journalCode=acm

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12. Wallace J, Exercise in Hypertension, Sports medicine, July 2003, Volume 33, Issue 8, pp 585-598

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