People visit chiropractors to help improve the wellness of their spine, as well as for help in maintaining a healthy brain and nervous system. But, a recent study has shown that through the special adjustment of a single vertebra, you can also significantly lower blood pressure with chiropractic care.
The procedure realigns the first vertebra (C-1), also known as the Atlas vertebra, which connects the base of the brain to the neck. Unlike the other vertebrae that interlock into one another, the Atlas relies only on the muscles and ligaments surrounding it to maintain alignment. For this reason, the Atlas is uniquely vulnerable to displacement.
The Atlas vertebra connects to the base of the brain at the brainstem. Alignment is crucial, and a displacement of as little as half a millimeter can create abnormal pressure on the brainstem. A number of important bodily functions, including the cardiovascular system, are controlled by the brainstem, so its proper function is essential to good health.
University study connects upper vertebra displacement with hypertension
In a 2007 study at the University of Chicago, 50 participants who each had Atlas displacement, as well as hypertension, were divided into two groups. The first group was given a specific chiropractic adjustment on their displaced Atlas vertebra. The second group was given a “placebo” treatment, intended to resemble chiropractic care.
As a result of the single chiropractic treatment on the first group, they registered a significantly lower blood pressure with chiropractic. On average, each patient recorded a reduction of 27 blood pressure points (17 systolic/10 diastolic), which was reported to be similar to the use of two-drug combination therapy.
Assessments were given after the treatment, and again eight weeks later. The improvement in blood pressure continued eight weeks after a single adjustment to the Atlas vertebra.
While more research is necessary to understand exactly which specific nerves affect which specific functions, the established links between the nervous system and cardiovascular health demonstrate a step in the right direction.
Pangea Chiropractic can help you lower your blood pressure
If you’re concerned about high blood pressure and would like to explore drugless treatment options, contact Pangea Chiropractic in Bend, OR, for a check-up. Even if a subluxation exists, there may not be recognizable symptoms. For this reason, it is important to get regular check-ups.
We can help you assess your spinal health and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Contact Pangea Chiropractic today, and enjoy the wellness that comes from a healthy spine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chiropractic adjustments actually help lower blood pressure?
Research suggests that specific chiropractic adjustments, particularly to the Atlas vertebra (C-1), may help lower blood pressure in some patients. A 2007 University of Chicago study suggested that patients who received an Atlas adjustment experienced an average reduction of 17 points systolic and 10 points diastolic in that study, comparable to taking two blood pressure medications. At Pangea Chiropractic in Bend, Oregon, our doctors can evaluate your upper cervical alignment and determine whether a subluxation may be contributing to elevated blood pressure. While chiropractic care should complement rather than replace your physician’s recommendations, it offers a natural, drug-free approach worth exploring.
How does the Atlas vertebra affect blood pressure?
The Atlas vertebra sits at the base of the skull and connects directly to the brainstem, which controls many essential bodily functions, including cardiovascular regulation. Unlike other vertebrae that interlock with each other, the Atlas relies solely on surrounding muscles and ligaments for stability, making it uniquely vulnerable to misalignment. A displacement of as little as half a millimeter can create abnormal pressure on the brainstem, potentially affecting heart rate and blood pressure. Correcting this misalignment through precise chiropractic adjustment at our Bend, Oregon office can help restore proper brainstem function and support healthier blood pressure levels.
Is chiropractic care for high blood pressure safe if I’m already taking medication?
Yes, chiropractic care is generally safe to use alongside blood pressure medications. At Pangea Chiropractic in Bend, Oregon, we take a thorough health history before beginning any treatment and coordinate with your other healthcare providers as needed. Chiropractic adjustments are a non-invasive, drug-free approach that supports your body’s natural ability to regulate blood pressure without interfering with your current medications. If your blood pressure improves through chiropractic care, your prescribing physician can monitor and adjust your medications accordingly.
RESOURCES
https://www.uchospitals.edu/news/2007/20070314-atlas.html
https://www.chiro.org/research/ABSTRACTS/Atlas_Vertebra_Realignment.shtml
