Chiropractic Helping Heart Trouble and Cholesterol Levels - Case Study and Literature Review

A case research study published on November 4, 2013, in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, documented the case of a man being helped with heart problems as well as his cholesterol levels. The study authors note that there is much public confusion about cardiac condition and cholesterol levels. They devote a portion of their paper in the attempt of clarifying these issues.

The authors point out that the commonly believed notion that cholesterol is bad, is false. They point out that cholesterol is essential for life and that many items in the human body have cholesterol as an essential ingredient. These include brain synapses, cell membranes, sex hormones, and numerous other parts and bodily functions. If there is not enough cholesterol in our system, our liver will start the production of it.

The authors describe cardiovascular disease by saying, "Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels. Heart attacks (myocardial infarction) and strokes are usually acute events mainly caused by a blockage that prevents blood from flowing to the heart or brain, respectively." They state that according to the World Health Organization, "Behavioral risk factors are responsible for about 80% of coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease."

In this case, a 54-year-old man went to the chiropractor because of altered levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. He was also suffering with additional complaints including anxiety, constipation, fatigue, irritability, mood swings, neck pain, and stiff neck. He also indicated suffering from depression due to the death of his father, mother, brother, and uncle which all occurred within the previous year. One month prior to starting chiropractic, the man had blood work performed showing abnormal levels of cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels.

A chiropractic examination including palpation, sEMG, thermal scans and x-rays were performed and subluxations were determined to be present. A series of specific chiropractic adjustments was initiated to correct the subluxations.

One month after he began chiropractic he reported, "I feel so much better and relaxed." The results also showed that after 18 weeks of chiropractic care, the patient went for another panel of blood work which showed, "...improvement in every area." During this time frame the patient had made no lifestyle changes.

The patient's cardiologist was also impressed with the man's progress and reduced his medications. In a letter mailed to the patient, the cardiologist stated, "Your liver functions and CPK were within normal limits. Your numbers looked great. Keep up the good work."