Support for high blood pressure, alongside the care you already have

Many people come to us for extra support with the lifestyle side: calming stress, sleeping better and feeling more at ease in their bodies while they work on blood pressure with their doctor.

How Chinese medicine sees it

Chinese medicine looks at the whole person, not just a reading on a cuff. Stress, sleep, diet, weight and energy all play a part, and each person's pattern is different.

Almost anything that lowers your stress can have a good effect on your blood pressure. Acupuncture aims to reduce stress and promote an overall sense of wellness, as a complement to your medical treatment and the lifestyle changes your doctor recommends.

How we treat it

• Calming acupuncture focused on stress and your individual pattern.
• Nutrition advice that supports a heart-healthy diet and weight goals.
• Encouragement for stress-reducing practices such as meditation, yoga or tai chi.
• Custom herbal formulas only when appropriate, and only after Scott Paglia, L.Ac., reviews your blood pressure medications.

What to expect

• A relaxed consultation and a full health history. We'll ask about your blood pressure history, medications, stress, sleep and diet, and about your sleep, digestion, energy and stress too.
• A traditional Chinese medicine exam, including your pulse and your tongue.
• A clear explanation of what we found and how Chinese medicine understands it.
• A treatment plan made for you, with time for all your questions.
• We'll recommend a plan after your first appointment, and adjust it as we see how you respond.

Things you can try at home

• Move your body regularly and eat a nutrient-rich diet.
• Make time for something that lowers your stress, such as meditation, yoga or a tai chi class.

Acupuncture is used alongside your medical care for high blood pressure; never stop or change your medication without talking with your physician first.

Common questions