By Dr. Marilyn L. Durden

Many patients at our clinic, after a period of care, report that their digestion, sleep patterns and even heart palpitations improve. These are usually patients who have come to our clinic for neck pain, headaches or back or extremity problems. A look at our physiology and recent research bears out the reasons for their testimonials.

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls organ function (including the heart), and overall balance of the body’s systems.
Exciting preliminary research in Japan found that spinal manipulation of the neck “produced significant alterations in both heart-rate and measures of heart-rate variability”, compared to a control group. (Autonomic Neuroscience 2001;91:96-9)

Scientists report that injury to the musculoskeletal system, especially those near the spine, alters ANS activity. One late-breaking study tested six people who suffered a musculoskeletal injury during the previous seven days. Researchers detected fluctuations in blood pressure and skin temperature. (JMPT 2005;28:144-51)

A brief look at the body’s anatomy shows that the Vagus Nerve, which runs next to the cervical spine (neck) from the brain stem at the base of the skull to our vital organs, supplies the rear and front portions of the stomach and there are several sub-branches that journey to the larynx, pharynx (throat), trachea (windpipe), lungs, heart and other organs.

The Vagus Nerve, the longest cranial nerve, releases acetylcholine, a substance that:

• Slows heart rate.

• Stimulates the production of stomach acid and pancreatic juice.

• Increases peristalsis – the rhythmic, muscular contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Dr. Marilyn Durden of the Durden Chiropractic Clinic in Tyrone recommends that patients consume a healthy diet (the omega diet) and exercise as a part of their Heart Health Program. Board Certified in the Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic Technique, she also recommends including chiropractic to keep you heart healthy and strong. She is available to provide information and consultation about how to keep the Vagus and other nerves at optimal performance.

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