Here at Foster Chiropractic Sports & Wellness, we’re always looking for a reason to celebrate, and February is no exception. We love this month filled with hearts, and we’re not talking about Valentine’s Day. February is American Heart Month, a time devoted to raising awareness of the importance of cardiovascular health, and we’re celebrating by showing how chiropractic care and heart healthy lifestyles are connected.
When it comes to heart disease, the statistics show a stark reality -- Americans need to do a better job of caring for their heart.
* 1 person dies of heart disease every 36 seconds
* About 18 million adults have coronary artery disease
* 805,000 people in the U.S. have a heart attack each year
* 1 in 5 heart attacks is silent, meaning the person is not aware of the damage that was done.
Chiropractic Care Can Help with Heart Health
Did you know that regular visits to the chiropractor can help improve some of the factors that lead to heart disease? Here are a few ways Foster Chiropractic can help your heart keep beating strong for years to come.
Help Lower Blood Pressure. Studies show significant improvement to blood pressure when patients receive an adjustment of the Atlas vertebrae. This vertebra, the first in the spinal column, is called the Atlas because just as Atlas held up the Earth in Greek mythology, this vertebra supports the head. When out of alignment, it triggers the release of a signal that makes the arteries contract, adversely affecting blood flow in the base of the skull. An Atlas adjustment can improve blood flow, which in turn helps lower blood pressure.
Reduce Inflammation. When the spine is out of alignment, it can cause pressure on the nerves, which leads to the production of neuropeptides, a chemical signal that promotes inflammation through the body. Reducing the pressure on the nerves stops the production of neuropeptides, thereby reducing inflammation throughout the body, including in arteries, veins and the heart, to help blood flow strong through the entire cardiovascular system.
Improve Lung Function. The heart and lungs work together, therefore when your lungs are strong and healthy, the flow of oxygen is improved and benefits the blood flow through your body as well as powering the strength of your heart muscles. Studies have shown that chiropractic treatments are able to open up the respiratory system to allow air to flow through the lungs easier and improve lung capacity.
A Holistic Approach
Regular visits to the chiropractor are just one prong to heart health. It’s also important to eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and grains and to get regular exercise. By incorporating all three of these practices into your regular routine you can keep your heart pumping strong for years to come.