I have chosen to work with the technology from Chiropractic Leadership Alliance (CLA). They bridge the gap between good intentions and concrete results with INSiGHT™ technology. Using this state of the art technology I have access to patient metrics that provide a roadmap to wellness that has never been accessible before.
As a part of the Space Foundation-certified INSiGHT™ stress analysis system, the Pulse Wave Profiler (PWP) helps me assess and monitor the impact of stress on my patients through Heart Rate Variability (HRV) readings.
What is HRV and how does it affect well-being?
HRV
refers to the beat-to-beat variability of the heart, and provides
incredible insight into autonomic nervous system function. Though it may
seem counterintuitive, a higher HRV is actually a good thing: it means
that there is a greater variability in the time between heart beats so
this organ is better able to respond to stress, sickness or physical
activity.
The more adaptable a patient’s heart, the less damage any stress-related spikes will be for overall health and well-being. With the PWP, I can establish a baseline HRV for each of my patients. This provides a concrete starting point to track a your progress as we work toward your wellness.
What data is collected from a PWP scan?
During a
scan, the PWP collects data on the Instantaneous Heart Rate (IHR)
throughout the unattended, 5 minute scanning period. This information is
used to determine the variability in heart rate, and is presented in an
easy-to-interpret graph. Any unexpected variances in nervous system
stimulation are measured as Skin Conductance Response values.
Once the scan is complete and this data is collected, the INSiGHT software calculates the HRV measurements to assess the state of the autonomous nervous system (ANS). This screen compares the two branches of the ANS: parasympathetic (brakes) versus sympathetic (gas) responses. The PWP can reveal if these branches are balanced (as they should be), or if one component is stronger.
How can HRV readings be used for wellness?
With
the PWP, CLA has provided a way to reliably assess HRV for chiropractic
applications. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to improve HRV
measurements, yet finding a way to convey these benefits simply and
accessibly to patients has been difficult. PWP readings give us a
scientifically valid proof to show patients exactly how chiropractic
care, within the greater context of a healthy lifestyle, is supporting
their heart and promoting their well-being. We can also identify
imbalances in the autonomous system and clearly document your progress
over time.
CLA’s INSiGHT™ stress analysis system enables a greater degree of transparency and direction in chiropractic care and holistic living in general. This equipment can direct the course of care I give to my patients and provide the concrete motivation they need to pursue a healthier lifestyle.
If you would like to schedule a Pulse Wave Profiler scan to analyze how you are handling stress, please call the office at 724-934-3911 so we can help you manage stress in a healthy way.
Love and Respect
Dr. Pete Lawton