What Is HRV?
Heart rate variability or HRV is the physiological occurrence of the variation in the time interval between consecutive heartbeats in milliseconds. A heart that is normal and healthy doesn’t tick evenly like a metronome. Instead, when looking at the milliseconds between heartbeats, the variation is constant. Typically, we’re not aware of this variation; it’s not the same as the heart rate (beats per minute) increasing and decreasing as we go about our day’s tasks.
Fluctuations Throughout
the Day
The HRV level changes naturally from day to day, based on activity level and stress (e.g. work-related). If a person is chronically stressed (whether mentally or physically), the natural back-and-forth between the two systems can be disrupted. When that occurs, the body can get stuck in a sympathetically dominant fight state, with low HRV and high-stress hormone levels, even when the person is resting. This can drain the body and lead to various mental and physical health issues.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
From heart rate and breathing to immunity and digestion, all have an autonomic influence. Chiropractic adjustments improve autonomic function, measured effectively through HRV. Getting enough exercise and sleep can also help you have a healthier HRV.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is heart rate different from HRV?
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) gauges the specific changes in time (or variability) between successive heartbeats.
Book an Appointment
Contact us today to schedule an appointment. With our HRV assessment, we can evaluate your health, help you manage your stress and optimize your well-being.