Effect of cervical manipulation on autonomic nervous function in healthy volunteers

Objective According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the effect of cervical stimulation on autonomic nervous system activity in humans was investigated. Methods Healthy young male volunteers were selected as subjects of the trial. The upper cervical spine (C_2–5) was stimulated bilaterally with spinal manipulation, and changes in heart rate and heart rate variability were calculated as measures of effects on autonomic nervous system tone. Results Thirty healthy young male volunteers were tested. It was found that heart rate decreased (R-R interval prolonged) significantly. SDNN and total power spectrum increased significantly, indicating an increase in sympathetic tone. Conclusion Cervical manipulation can regulate the autonomic nervous system tone in healthy young men, and it suggests a possibility of treating cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmia with cervical manipulation. Corresponding authors: LI Wei-min(1959- ), male, associate professor, M.D., mainly engaged in researching stopping pain with acupuncture, complicated net system of acupuncture information, and adjustment of autonomic nerve function. Brian Budgell, male, professor, PhD, mainly engaged in the study of adjusting autonomic nerve.