The Effect of Acupuncture on Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

The Effect of Acupuncture on Blood Pressure and HRV

This research is designed to study the effects of needle acupuncture on blood pressure and HRV by stimulating certain acupuncture points and meridians.

Outcome measurements include blood pressure and heart rate variability.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female suffering from mild hypertension (systolic BP between 130-165 mmHg, diastolic BP between 90-120 mmHg).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with heart, kidney, thyroid disorders, diabetes, chronic disease or illness, neurological diseases, skin or bleeding disorders,
• Currently taking prescription or OTC medications and/or herb/supplements that effect BP or autonomic tone will not be recruited into the study.
• In addition, individuals who have a pacemaker and/or are pregnant will not be recruited in the study. A health history questionnaire was used to screen subjects.