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Dr. Megan Choy

How to Measure Your Blood Pressure

Updated: Dec 16, 2022


Measuring and recording your blood pressure regularly is an important part of the healing process. Taking your blood pressure will allow you and your practitioner to see if progress is being made, and may provide insight into things that are both improving and worsening your condition.


There are many different blood pressure monitoring devices. This device is a good option.


To take a proper resting blood pressure, first sit quietly for 10 minutes. Be sure you have your blood pressure equipment within reach. You can read, watch TV (but not a sports game that will get your blood pumping), scroll on your phone, or do other quiet activities. But do not move significantly during the 10 minutes.


After 10 minutes are up, measure your blood pressure following these instructions.


Sit with your back straight and supported, with your feet on flat on the ground. Do not cross your legs. Have your arm supported on a table or arm of a chair or sofa. Place the blood pressure cuff on your right arm (unless otherwise instructed). Be sure the bottom of the cuff is directly above the bend of the elbow. See the instructions that come with your blood pressure monitor for an illustration and further details. Start the blood pressure monitor and wait until it is finished. Record the results.



It is best to take your blood pressure at the same time every day, under similar conditions. It is best to avoid caffeine before taking your blood pressure. Your practitioner may occasionally request that you take your blood pressure under other conditions or ask for repeated readings on the same day in order to get additional information.


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