Chiropractic Research Journal 2000 Fall; VII(2): 81
ABSTRACT: Background: Type II diabetes is characterized by elevated post-prandial plasma glucose levels and recurrent fasting hypoglycemia. Progression of cardiovascular and renal disease has been demonstrated to correlate with hypertension and hyperglycemia in patients with type II diabetes.
Objectives: The purpose of this project is to evaluate the acute effects of chiropractic reduction of upper cervical subluxation using the technique established by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA)on blood pressure, plasma glucose, and the activity of the autonomic nervous system in patients with type II diabetes.
Conclusions: These results demonstrate that reduction of upper-cervical subluxations by NUCCA adjustment resulted in a stabilization of plasma glucose levels during the three-hour fasting period. Further characterization of these patients,as well as additional patients, will be necessary to assess the mechanisms through which this stabilization occurs. Long-term monitoring of these variables in these patients will determine if the beneficial effects of this type of chiropractic care on plasma glucose level are maintained for extended periods of time.