Heart Rate Variability Testing in Boulder
Every so often, we hear tragic stories of seemingly healthy people—like marathon runners or weightlifters—suddenly having a heart attack without warning. What factors could be driving these sudden incidents? Being able to assess physical fitness and predict hidden health risks is, of course, highly valuable. An assessment tool we have to do just that is the innovative Heart Rate Variability (HRV) test that provides critical insights into your body’s overall health.
What HRV Testing Shows
A component of INSiGHT™ scanning technology, HRV is a non-invasive test that measures tiny changes in your heart rate to assess your autonomic nervous system. This system has two key parts: the parasympathetic (rest and digest) and sympathetic (fight or flight) branches.
In a healthy person, their heart rate will naturally vary to adapt to different situations. However, when stress throws these systems out of balance, it can increase health risks—regardless of how fit someone looks on the outside.
Why Your Score Matters
A low HRV score usually means your body is stuck in stress mode, with an overactive sympathetic system and an underperforming parasympathetic system. Research shows this imbalance can increase your risk of heart problems, chronic diseases, and reduced physical fitness. The test is particularly useful for the following:
- Assessing cardiac risk in people over 40 starting exercise programs
- Identifying the root causes of symptoms like dizziness and erectile dysfunction
- Monitoring how well treatments like chiropractic care, massage, or medications are working
- Detecting inflammation linked to conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease
Using HRV As Part of Your Health Plan
While HRV testing shouldn’t be the only diagnostic tool you rely on, it does provide valuable information about your body’s stress levels and overall condition. When combined with other medical tests, it helps create a clearer picture of your health status and potential risks to be mindful of. As Dr. Simon Yu, a long-time proponent of HRV testing, states: “The potential applications of this test are only limited by the physician’s imagination.”
Schedule an Appointment
When it comes to your health, you should never guess. Let’s test. Contact Network Wellness Center today to book an appointment with Dr. Richelle or Dr. Knowles.
