Chico chiropractor announces success treating high blood pressure patients

February 18, 2012 — Masula Chiropractic, Neurology, and Family Wellness in Chico, Calif., announced that the practice has successfully helped treat high blood pressure patients through chiropractic adjustments.

Larry Masula, DC, announced that his practice has had great success treating high blood pressure patients. High blood pressure increases the risk for heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and other chronic conditions.

“For years, doctors have prescribed a variety of different medications to lower heart disease,” said Masula. “While some medications can be effective, they all come with different side effects, and many patients must take these medications for life in order to experience continued benefits. Adjustments are a natural, conservative treatment that is just as effective, if not more so, than leading medications.”

A 2007 study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension found that chiropractic adjustments were more effective at lowering blood pressure than two different medications combined. Research suggests that an injury to the neck earlier in life may impede the flow of blood.

Chiropractic restores alignment to the cervical spine and correct this problem, reducing blood pressure. Chronic high blood pressure increases the risk for stroke, heart attack and other health problems.

The eight week study tracked 25 patients with early-stage high blood pressure. The adjustments led to an average 14mm Hg drop in the top number and 8mm Hg drop in the body number

“This landmark study found that localized adjustment to the upper cervical spine can reduce blood pressure, and may even be more effective than some medications,” said Masula. “At our chiropractic clinic, we are proud to offer this life-changing treatment.”

The study tracked the effectiveness of adjustment to the Atlas vertebra, also known as “C-1.” The Atlas vertebra is the uppermost vertebra in the body and holds up the head.

“Think of the Atlas vertebra as the ‘fuse box’ for the body,” said Masula. “At the base of the brain are two centers that control the muscles in the body. If the vertebra is out of alignment and pinches nearby nerves, many patients may never experience pain, but they may experience the effects of misalignment in other ways, such as higher blood pressure.”

Masula said that chiropractic adjustments, combined with lifestyle changes like exercise and diet, could help lower and control blood pressure without the need for medication.

Source: Masula Chiropractic, Neurology, and Family Wellness, masulachiropractic.com