High blood pressure is the main cause of disease and death in industrialized societies.  In the U.S. alone, nearly one million people die from stroke or heart failure annually, despite the fact that high blood pressure, or hypertension, is considered an easily controlled condition.  Although prescription drugs have produced mixed results, good evidence suggests that lifestyle and diet alteration can effectively reduce hypertension.

One study examined the effects of chiropractic adjustments of the thoracic spine (mid-back) on blood pressure and anxiety in 21 patients with elevated blood pressure.  Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions: active treatment, placebo, treatment, or no treatment control. 

Results indicated that both systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly in the active treatment group, whereas no significant changes occurred in the placebo and control conditions. 

Results provide support for the hypothesis that blood pressure is reduced following chiropractic adjustments.  The authors recommend further study to examine the long-term effects of chiropractic care on blood pressure.  (J Manipulative Physio Ther 1988: 11 (6) Dec: 484-488

We’ve done studies here at the office, and sure enough it does drop!

Lopressor is a beta-blocker and is commonly given for high blood pressure.  It does come with side effects; depression, diarrhea, dizziness, slow heartbeat, blurred vision, confusion and heart failure.