Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD or severe acid reflux, can be a painful and frustrating condition for those who experience it. While medication and dietary adjustments are common ways to manage GERD, it can become a chronic issue if the root cause is not properly addressed. Many people don’t realize that GERD can actually be caused by problems with the muscles in the esophagus, and it can be addressed by repairing the musculoskeletal system. A Billings chiropractor offers an effective and non-invasive way to manage GERD before it becomes worse.
GERD’s Causes and Common Treatments
Acid reflux occurs when the acid meant to stay in the stomach flows backward and up into the esophagus. If this occurs frequently and severely, it can be considered GERD. This may also include other symptoms like regular heartburn, regurgitation of food and liquid, trouble swallowing, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain.
The esophageal sphincter, the muscle that sits at the bottom of the esophagus, normally remains closed and only allows food and liquid through to the stomach. If this muscle is weakened or not working properly, it may open at random times and cause these symptoms. The more often this occurs, the more severe GERD may be.
Typically, a doctor will suggest that you address GERD by changing your diet or taking medication. In severe cases, surgery may even be recommended. But care from the team at Bare Chiropractic can be a less invasive option to prevent and manage GERD.
Chiropractic Care as GERD Relief
When lifestyle adjustments are not enough to relieve GERD, a chiropractor like Dr. Thomas Keogh may be able to help.
Chiropractic adjustments focus on aligning the spine in order to help the nervous system function properly. When the nerves do not work as intended, dysfunction can occur throughout the body, including in the esophageal sphincter. Ensuring that the spine and nervous system are working to their full potential is a great way to help your body avoid GERD symptoms.
The care of a chiropractor is effective even in infants suffering from GERD – in one study, a full resolution of symptoms occurred within three months of beginning treatment.
Holistic Chiropractic Care Helps GERD
While regular care at Bare Chiropractic can directly address the cause of GERD, it also has a beneficial effect on overall health. As the body begins to work more optimally, there may be less need for medications and other treatments, and the body can heal itself more effectively. Additionally, many cases of GERD are caused or exacerbated by medications, so less reliance on medication will also mean a lower chance of experiencing GERD symptoms.
A Billings chiropractor like Dr. Thomas Keogh can help you create a personalized care plan, aimed at both your GERD symptoms and improving your general health. This approach allows you to focus on holistic health, improving your nerve communication, and preventing future GERD symptoms. Contact us today for your first appointment to begin working toward relief.
Sources
Alcantara, J., Anderson, R. “Chiropractic Care of a Pediatric Patient with Symptoms Associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Fuss-Cry-Irritability with Sleep Disorder Syndrome and Irritable Infant Syndrome of Musculoskeletal Origin.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2008 Dec; 52(4): 248-255. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2597889/
Angus, K., Asgharifar, S., Gleberzon, B. “What Effect Does Chiropractic Treatment Have on Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders: A Narrative Review of the Literature.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2015 Jun; 59(2): 122-133. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4486990/
