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Warren Smith DC & Rick White DC
Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ Volume 2023 ~ August 4, 2023 ~ Pages 23-31
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Abstract
Objective: To evaluate and discuss the effects of upper cervical chiropractic care, specifically NUCCA (The National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) technique adjustments administered on a patient with a previous diagnosis of hypertension. This paper aims to support previously published research suggesting upper cervical chiropractic care can improve blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Clinical Features: The patient is a 77-year-old female that presented with hypertension, a previously diagnosed condition in which she has been prescribed Clopidogrel to treat. The patient’s exam revealed positive palpation findings, postural changes, uneven weight distribution, indicative anatometer measurements and x-ray findings qualifying the patient for specific upper cervical chiropractic care to the first cervical vertebra utilizing the NUCCA chiropractic technique analysis.
Intervention and Outcomes: Specific, low force upper cervical chiropractic adjustments (NUCCA) were administered to the upper cervical spine. During the course of the patient’s care, improvements were observed in all charted objective indicators including a correction in x-ray findings and a decrease in the patient’s blood pressure readings.
Conclusion: The patient experienced improvements in her blood pressure and all additional objective indicators following specific chiropractic adjustments to the first cervical vertebra. The goal of this paper is to assist in exploring the role of chiropractic care in the co-management of conditions other than neck pain, back pain and headaches.
Key Words: Chiropractic, vertebral subluxation, upper cervical, NUCCA, hypertension, blood pressure, adjustment, spinal manipulation
