The Connection Between Chiropractic and Blood Pressure

Looking for holistic solutions to go with your blood pressure medication?

Chiropractic care isn't a treatment for hypertension itself, but research suggests it may support healthy blood pressure by helping the nervous system function more smoothly.

One widely cited study from researchers at the University of Chicago and Rush University Medical Center looked at 50 people with a misaligned atlas vertebra (the top bone in the neck, or C1) and high blood pressure. After a specific adjustment to that area, participants saw a significant drop in blood pressure, comparable to taking two blood-pressure medications at once. A broader review of chiropractic therapy and hypertension found promising results across many studies, while noting the evidence is still developing.

There's also a more straightforward connection: chronic pain raises blood pressure. When you're in constant pain, your body stays in a stress state. For people whose neck or back pain is driving that response, relieving the pain can help take the pressure off.

Our Approach

As a specific structural correction practice, our focus is finding and correcting the root cause rather than just managing symptoms. If misalignment in your neck or upper back is contributing to tension in your body, correcting that structure may help your nervous system regulate more effectively.

Every care plan is customized to you. We start with a complimentary to talk about your health history, your goals, and whether our approach is a good fit for your needs.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

If you've been managing high blood pressure and you're curious whether spinal health could be part of your plan, call your local Ann Arbor Chiropractor at 734-221-0362 or click here to schedule a complimentary consultation today.

The Nervous System's Role in Blood Pressure

Are you managing high blood pressure?

If you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension, you've heard the standard advice: watch your salt, move more, manage stress, and take your medication as prescribed. All of those things matter. But many people are surprised to learn there's another piece of the puzzle: the health of your spine and nervous system.

Your blood pressure is controlled by your brain and nervous system. Your autonomic nervous system constantly adjusts your heart rate and blood vessel width to keep pressure in a healthy range.

When your body is under stress, it releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These constrict your blood vessels and speed up your heart, driving blood pressure up. That's a normal, short-term response. The problem comes when the system stays "on" and never settles back down.

This is where the spine comes in. The spinal cord is the main highway for signals between your brain and body. When the vertebrae in your neck and upper back are misaligned, they can interfere with the nerve signals that help regulate your heart and blood vessels, keeping your body in a state of heightened tension.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

If you've been managing high blood pressure and you're curious whether spinal health could be part of your plan, call your local Ann Arbor Chiropractor at 734-221-0362 or click here to schedule a complimentary consultation today.

How Specific Structural Chiropractic Helps Trigeminal Neuralgia

In our last blog, we talked about what trigeminal neuralgia is. Here, we’ll discuss how specific
structural chiropractic can help treat TN: 

How can specific structural chiropractic help?

Instead of just masking the pain, we focus on specific structural correction — a precise method of analyzing and correcting misalignments in the spine, particularly in the upper neck.

Here’s why that matters for trigeminal neuralgia:

• The trigeminal nerve originates in the brainstem, which sits right at the top of the spine. If the upper neck bones are misaligned, they can create tension, irritation, or altered fluid dynamics around the brainstem. This can directly affect how the trigeminal nerve functions.
• By gently and specifically correcting the alignment of the upper cervical spine, we can reduce the mechanical tension on the brainstem and the surrounding nerve roots. This allows the nervous system to function more normally and can reduce the frequency and intensity of TN episodes.
• Unlike general chiropractic adjustments, specific structural correction is tailored to your unique spinal structure. It's precise, low-force, and designed to hold the correction over time, not just provide temporary relief.

Learn more in our latest article.

Go to your local Ann Arbor chiropractor for a combined approach

By pairing specific structural correction with shockwave therapy, your local Ann Arbor chiropractor can offer a comprehensive, non-invasive, drug-free path forward.

If you're tired of living with the unpredictable, shocking pain of trigeminal neuralgia, you don't have to settle for "managing" it. You deserve a real look at the cause.

A consultation with us is always a conversation, never a commitment. We'll listen to your story, review any imaging you have, and explain exactly what we see and how we might be able to help. 

Call us today at 734.221.0362 or schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more.

How Specific Structural Correction Helps Trigeminal Neuralgia

Do you struggle with shooting pain in your face?

If you have TN, you know it's not just a simple headache or toothache. It feels like sudden, severe, electric-shock-like or stabbing pain in the jaw, cheek, teeth, gums, or lips. 

Instead of just masking the pain, we focus on specific structural correction — a precise method of analyzing and correcting misalignments in the spine, particularly in the upper neck.

Here’s why that matters for trigeminal neuralgia:

• The trigeminal nerve originates in the brainstem, which sits right at the top of the spine. If the upper neck bones are misaligned, they can create tension, irritation, or altered fluid dynamics around the brainstem. This can directly affect how the trigeminal nerve functions.
• By gently and specifically correcting the alignment of the upper cervical spine, we can reduce the mechanical tension on the brainstem and the surrounding nerve roots. This allows the nervous system to function more normally and can reduce the frequency and intensity of TN episodes.
• Unlike general chiropractic adjustments, specific structural correction is tailored to your unique spinal structure. It's precise, low-force, and designed to hold the correction over time, not just provide temporary relief.

Learn more in our latest article.

Go to your local Ann Arbor chiropractor for a combined approach

By pairing specific structural correction with shockwave therapy, your local Ann Arbor chiropractor can offer a comprehensive, non-invasive, drug-free path forward.

If you're tired of living with the unpredictable, shocking pain of trigeminal neuralgia, you don't have to settle for "managing" it. You deserve a real look at the cause.

A consultation with us is always a conversation, never a commitment. We'll listen to your story, review any imaging you have, and explain exactly what we see and how we might be able to help. 

Call us today at 734.221.0362 or schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more.

How Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy can Help Spring Injuries

Pivotal Chiropractic offers shockwave therapy (ESWT) in Ann Arbor, which is used as part of a
comprehensive care plan to help patients recover from springtime injuries more effectively.

Unlike treatments that simply mask symptoms, ESWT works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response.

Stimulates Tissue Repair

ESWT delivers focused acoustic waves to injured tissue. These waves:

• Increase blood flow to the area
• Stimulate cellular repair
• Activate the body’s regenerative processes

This is especially helpful for chronic tendon irritation, plantar fasciitis, and stubborn soft tissue injuries that haven’t responded to rest alone.

Breaks the Pain Cycle

Overuse injuries often linger because damaged tissue doesn’t receive enough circulation to fully heal. 

ESWT helps:

• Reduce inflammation
• Decrease pain sensitivity
• Promote remodeling of damaged tissue

Patients frequently report improvement in both pain levels and mobility after a series of treatments.

Addresses Chronic & Acute Spring Injuries

ESWT is particularly effective for conditions common in early spring, including:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Shoulder and rotator cuff irritation
• Tennis and golfer’s elbow
• Chronic muscle tightness or trigger points

When combined with chiropractic adjustments and corrective exercises, it supports long-term recovery, not just temporary relief.

Helps You Get Back to Activity Faster

The goal isn’t just to reduce pain. It’s to help you:

• Restore proper movement patterns
• Improve flexibility and strength
• Prevent recurring injuries

By promoting real tissue healing, ESWT helps active individuals return to their routines safely and confidently.

Read more in our latest article.

Feel Better with Shockwave Therapy in Ann Arbor

Our goal is to focus on identifying the root cause of your pain and using evidence-based treatments like ESWT as part of a personalized care plan.

If you’re ready to enjoy spring without being sidelined by injury, contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn whether ESWT is right for you.

Let’s help you move better and heal faster!

Most Common Injuries People See in Early Spring

When folks jump back into activity after the winter months, certain injuries tend to pop up more often.

These usually stem from tight muscles, weakened stabilizers, limited mobility, or spinal misalignment from long periods of inactivity. Common springtime injuries include:

1. Strains & Sprains

Quick starts without proper warm-ups can cause the muscles and connective tissues to overreach or tear. 

Common examples include:

• Hamstring or calf strains from running
• Ankle sprains on uneven trails
• Knee ligament irritation from quick direction changes

These often come with pain, swelling, or limited range of motion. 

2. Lower Back Pain

After months of sitting more and moving less, the core and back muscles can lose strength, leading to:

• Low back stiffness or spasms
• Pain when bending, lifting, or twisting
• Flare-ups during yard work or lifting gardening gear

Misalignment or imbalance in the spine often contributes to these symptoms. 

3. Tendonitis

Repetitive activities like biking, tennis, or increased walking can inflame tendons, especially in the:

• Achilles tendon
• Shoulders (rotator cuff)
• Elbows (tennis or golfer’s elbow)

Even moderate activity increases can aggravate these tendons if the body isn’t ready. 

4. Plantar Fasciitis

Sudden boosts in walking or jogging can stress the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain and stiffness; classic signs of plantar fasciitis.

Read more in our latest article.

Feel Better with Shockwave Therapy in Ann Arbor

We offer shockwave therapy (ESWT) in Ann Arbor, which is used as part of a comprehensive care plan to help patients recover from springtime injuries more effectively.

If you’re ready to enjoy spring without being sidelined by injury, contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn whether ESWT is right for you.

Let’s help you move better and heal faster!

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

How do you know if you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. This nerve supplies sensation to the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger, and controls some thumb movements. Narrowing of the tunnel from swollen tissues, repetitive stress, or structural misalignment, can pinch the nerve.

Here are some common symptoms you may be experiencing if you have CTS:

1. Numbness, tingling, or burning in the thumb, index, middle, and inside of the ring finger.
2. Nighttime discomfort is typical, as sleeping with bent wrists aggravates pressure.
3. Weakness or clumsiness, including dropping items or difficulty gripping.
4. Muscle atrophy at the base of the thumb (also called the “thenar eminence”) can happen in long-standing cases.

Learn more in our latest article.

Live Near Ann Arbor? We’re Your Friendly Neighborhood Chiropractor!

If you’re struggling with wrist pain, tingling, or numbness, visiting Dr. Gessert could be a valuable next step—especially to see if your spine is contributing to the condition in question.

To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. Here are a few common causes of this nerve compression:

Repetitive Hand Use & Ergonomics
Repeating wrist motions—gripping tools, typing, working on assembly lines, etc.—causes strain, especially with vibration or forced wrist positions. OSHA and NIOSH note these as significant risk factors.

Medical & Physiological Factors
Conditions like obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, fluid retention (e.g. pregnancy), and genetic predispositions all increase CTS risk.

Trauma & Anatomical Changes
Wrist injuries (such as fractures), ganglion cysts, or joint inflammation can constrict the carpal tunnel. 

Learn more in our latest article.

Live Near Ann Arbor? We’re Your Friendly Neighborhood Chiropractor!

If you’re struggling with wrist pain, tingling, or numbness, visiting Dr. Gessert could be a valuable next step—especially to see if your spine is contributing to the condition in question.

To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.

Chiropractic Care for Degenerative Joint Disease

Are you considering chiropractic care for your arthritis? Here’s what you need to know!

Chiropractic treatment is a non-invasive, drug-free option that can play a significant role in managing DJD. Chiropractors focus on spinal and joint alignment, which helps improve movement patterns, reduce pain, and support overall joint function.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for DJD Include:

• Pain Relief: Gentle adjustments can help reduce joint pressure and nerve irritation, easing discomfort.
• Improved Joint Mobility: Restoring proper joint alignment enhances range of motion and flexibility.
• Decreased Inflammation: Chiropractic care may help lower inflammation in and around the joints.
• Enhanced Posture and Balance: Proper alignment supports better biomechanics, helping to reduce wear on affected joints.

Learn more in our latest article.

Start Feeling Better with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

Chiropractic work can help you manage degenerative disc disease, as well as many other secondary conditions. To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.

Causes of Degenerative Joint Disease

Did you know that arthritis is actually Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)?

Degenerative Joint Disease can develop due to a combination of factors, including:

• Aging: Cartilage naturally deteriorates with age.
• Joint Overuse: Repetitive motion or long-term physical stress on joints, such as from manual labor or sports, can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
• Injury: Previous joint injuries or trauma (e.g. fractures or ligament tears) increase the risk of DJD.
• Obesity: Excess body weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase susceptibility.
• Poor Posture or Biomechanics: Misaligned joints and abnormal movement patterns can hasten joint wear.

Learn more in our latest article.

Start Feeling Better with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

Chiropractic work can help you manage degenerative disc disease, as well as many other secondary conditions. To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.

Don't immobilize a torn ligament.

Do you have a torn ligament?

Too often, a person injures a ligament and their healthcare provider tells them to wear a brace, or wraps the area to immobilize it. Research shows that “immobilization causes ligament physiology to progressively change from anabolic to a more catabolic state.” This means that the ligament tissue breaks down and is much weaker when it is immobilized. On the other hand, when the tissue is exercised, research shows that there is a direct correlation between the number of collagen fibrils, their arrangement, and their average thickness with the ligament. “In a systematic review, early mobilization was found to decrease pain, swelling and stiffness, to preserve more of the ligament’s range of motion, and to result in a quicker return to work.” This means that with movement, the ligament tissue heals faster and stronger. In the case of a major ligament rupture, surgery along with casting may be necessary in the beginning stages, but a guided exercise routine will be necessary to ensure adequate healing as time progresses. 

Learn more in our latest article.

An Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help You Recover

Along with physical rehabilitation, your Ann Arbor chiropractor can work in collaboration with your other doctors to be part of a treatment plan for ligament injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, adjustments to improve stability, mobility, reduce pain, and improved healing can be an important part of ligament damage recovery.

To get started or ask a question, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Source: Hauser, R., Dolan, E., Phillips, H., Newlin, A., R., & Woldin, B. (2013). Ligament Injury and Healing: A Review of Current Clinical Diagnostics and Therapeutics [Abstract]. The Open Rehabilitation Journal, 6(1), 20th ser. doi:10.2174/1874943701306010001

Did I tear a ligament, or is it just a pulled muscle?

Unsure if the pain is a torn ligament or pulled muscle?

A trained chiropractor or medical provider can assess if an injury resulted in a pulled muscle or sprain/tear of a ligament. This is determined through a comprehensive evaluation of the injured area. Generally, when a ligament is damaged, you will notice pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising. If the ligament is torn or ruptured, in addition to extreme pain, it may also feel loose or weak, like the joint will give out. Depending on the severity of the injury, a proper course of treatment is essential to ensuring adequate healing.

Most minor ligament sprains will heal on their own if they’re taken care of properly. In the case of a ruptured or torn ligament, surgery may be required to fix the damage along with physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion.

If a ligament injury is minor then there are a few things you can do on your own to ensure proper healing. Check them out in our latest article.

An Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help You Recover

Along with physical rehabilitation, your Ann Arbor chiropractor can work in collaboration with your other doctors to be part of a treatment plan for ligament injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, adjustments to improve stability, mobility, reduce pain, and improved healing can be an important part of ligament damage recovery.

To get started or ask a question, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Source: Hauser, R., Dolan, E., Phillips, H., Newlin, A., R., & Woldin, B. (2013). Ligament Injury and Healing: A Review of Current Clinical Diagnostics and Therapeutics [Abstract]. The Open Rehabilitation Journal, 6(1), 20th ser. doi:10.2174/1874943701306010001

Causes of Cervicogenic Dizziness

In our last blog, we defined cervicogenic dizziness. But what causes it?

Several conditions and factors can contribute to cervicogenic dizziness, including:

• Neck Injuries: Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash from a car accident or a sports injury, can disrupt the normal function of the cervical spine and lead to dizziness.
• Poor Posture: Prolonged poor posture, such as forward head posture from excessive screen time, can strain the neck muscles and joints, contributing to dizziness.
• Cervical Degeneration: Conditions like osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine can impact nerves and blood flow, leading to dizziness.
• Muscle Tension & Spasms: Tight or strained neck muscles can interfere with proper nerve signaling and blood circulation, causing dizziness.

Managing and Treating Cervicogenic Dizziness

Treatment for cervicogenic dizziness focuses on addressing the underlying cervical spine dysfunction. Common approaches include:

• Chiropractic Care & Physical Therapy: Gentle spinal adjustments, mobilization techniques, and specific exercises can help restore proper neck alignment and function.
• Postural Corrections: Improving posture through ergonomic adjustments and strengthening exercises can reduce strain on the cervical spine.
• Massage Therapy: Soft tissue techniques can help alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management, hydration, and maintaining an active lifestyle can help prevent flare-ups of dizziness.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor-Based Chiropractor

Cervicogenic dizziness is a condition that a structural chiropractor can help address by correcting spinal alignment, which assists with balance and equilibrium. For more information, call our Ann Arbor chiropractor’s office at (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form. Remember, talking to Dr. Gessert is never a commitment!

What is Cervicogenic Dizziness?

Do you experience frequent dizziness?

Cervicogenic dizziness is a lesser-known but significant condition that affects many individuals. It is not a disease itself but rather a symptom arising from issues in the cervical spine (neck). Characterized by dizziness or a sense of imbalance, cervicogenic dizziness can significantly impact a person’s daily life and overall well-being. Understanding its causes and effects is crucial for proper management and treatment.

Cervicogenic dizziness is a type of dizziness that originates from dysfunction in the cervical spine, often due to musculoskeletal or neurological issues. Individuals with this condition may experience a sensation of unsteadiness or lightheadedness rather than a spinning sensation commonly associated with vertigo. It is frequently accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion in the neck.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor-Based Chiropractor

Cervicogenic dizziness is a condition that a structural chiropractor can help address by correcting spinal alignment, which assists with balance and equilibrium. For more information, call our Ann Arbor chiropractor’s office at (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form. Remember, talking to Dr. Gessert is never a commitment!