Atrial Fibrillation and the Spine

[EngMac]

For years I have suspected the condition of the spine can be a factor with atrial fibrillation and I think I may have posted the study previously but not the chiropractic comments in the link below. The vagus nerve has been discussed many times on this forum. According to this study, the vagus nerve impacts the parasympathetic function of the heart and the nerves in the spine affect the sympathetic function of the heart.

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between cervical spondylosis and arrhythmia. Degenerative disease of the cervical spine might cause compression of the spinal canal and irritation of sympathetic nerves. This study reveals that cervical spondylosis is associated with a 3.10-fold increase of arrhythmia risk compared to patients without cervical spondylosis, especially atrial fibrillation, ventricular and supraventricular tachycardia.

Clinical evidence has shown that cervical spondylosis can cause sympathetic nerve irritation and associated sympathetic symptoms. And instability at the C4-C5 intervertebral space is the most common type causing sympathetic symptoms.

Further information in this link: clarkchiropractic.net/irreg...

[secondtry]

Wow! My theory is that AF for the majority is made up of many causes rather than just one and what you highlight could be one of those causes. I have recently started doing flexibility exercises x3 per week, which I hope will help.

[KMRobbo in reply to secondtry]

If you have any physical issues with your neck BE VERY CAREFUL with excercise. You can make things much worse

[Visacrem]

Wow thanks for that, I'm currently suffering from disc bulge at L4/5 which radiates pain down the sciatica nerve, my left left leg always in pain. But I've notices my heart rhythm being affected at times, had ablation done 5 months ago and thought it was that so thanks again for the info I'm now better informed and will monitor that. 👍

[LaceyLady]

I had to study anatomy & physiology before studying Reflexology Complementary therapy, it all makes absolute sense. The nervous system is linked like a network all over the body!

[wheelsup]

I have always suspected this as i have had significant cervical issues. Tried to tell doctors this may be my cause of random anxiety as well as afib. Came on deaf ears. Went through NUCCA phys therapy which re-aligns atlas (first vertibrae) thinking this was core issue. But I have issues through C6/C7. I do believe my core contributor to dizziness, anxiety, and heart rhythm is neck issues and nerve irritation. Specifically vagus nerve.

Just my thoughts.

[LaceyLady in reply to wheelsup]

I go to an osteopath albeit an upgraded one, previous retired. I always prefer them. If I’ve part of the spine is out, you’ll have another too. I do understand how spinal misalignment can affect organs through the nervous system.

[wilsond]

very interesting! My late mother had Spondylosis and Af and I have both these conditions too !

[lwm1198]

That would seem to apply in my case as the spondylosis is acute and predates the Afib!

[JOY2THEWORLD49]

Hi. My A.F was due to undiagnosed Thyroid Cancer but it didnt come right after thyroidectomy and 12 nodes taken. Saved, just as 2 lymph nodes contained Papillary Carcinoma. Went to private cardiac specialist now on Calcium Channel blocker success but had to reduce Bisoprolol. 1/2 dose of Diltiazem 180, Bisoprolol 2,5 only. I am sporting a heart 132/82. 66 heart beat! I have my energy back. At last. Hip Hooray!