Understanding Acid Reflux (GERD) and the Role of Chiropractic Care
What Is Acid Reflux and GERD?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, often causing a burning sensation known as heartburn. When this happens more than twice a week, it is typically diagnosed as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Common symptoms include chest discomfort, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, chronic cough, and trouble swallowing.
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, GERD affects approximately 20% of the U.S. population, making it one of the most common digestive disorders (Vakil et al., 2006).
What Causes GERD?
GERD often develops due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve between the stomach and esophagus. When the LES doesn’t close properly, stomach acid escapes upward.
Contributing factors include:
- Poor posture (especially slouching)
- Obesity
- Hiatal hernia
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Stress and anxiety
The Posture-Digestion Connection
What many people don’t realize is that spinal alignment and posture play a critical role in digestive function. Slouching or spinal misalignment can increase pressure in the abdominal cavity, putting stress on the LES and promoting acid reflux.
A forward-leaning posture, also known as thoracic hyperkyphosis, has been associated with greater GERD symptom frequency (Kilic et al., 2021). Improving spinal posture may reduce intra-abdominal pressure and improve the mechanical function of the LES.
Can Chiropractic Care Help with GERD?
At Redefine Your Spine in Tampa, FL, we use a technique known as Chiropractic BioPhysics® (CBP), a research-based approach that focuses on correcting spinal alignment and posture to restore optimal body function.
While chiropractic care is not a direct treatment for acid reflux or GERD, evidence suggests that improving spinal health may alleviate some contributing factors.
Potential benefits of chiropractic care for GERD:
- Reducing pressure on the diaphragm and abdomen
- Enhancing nerve function involved in digestion
- Promoting upright posture and spinal balance
- Supporting a healthy nervous system, which regulates the gastrointestinal tract
A case report published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health noted symptom improvement in a child with GERD after chiropractic care that focused on spinal adjustments and posture correction (Gleberzon et al., 2010). While more research is needed, these results are promising for integrative care models.
Lifestyle Tips for Managing GERD
Alongside chiropractic care, adopting lifestyle changes can significantly help reduce GERD symptoms:
- ✅ Avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, acidic, caffeine, and alcohol)
- ✅ Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- ✅ Don’t lie down immediately after eating
- ✅ Maintain a healthy weight
- ✅ Sleep with your upper body elevated
- ✅ Practice mindful eating and stress reduction
Why Choose Redefine Your Spine in Tampa?
Our focus is on the whole-body connection, because your posture, spine, and nervous system affect much more than just your back. Through expert care, custom spinal correction plans, and a commitment to your wellness, we work to support your body’s ability to function at its best.
Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic discomfort, posture-related issues, or looking to complement medical treatment for GERD, our experienced team is here to help you redefine what health feels like.
Summary
GERD is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, and while chiropractic care isn’t a cure, it can be a valuable part of a comprehensive, holistic approach. If you’re struggling with GERD and suspect your posture or spinal alignment may be contributing, don’t wait—schedule a consultation with us today.
References
- Vakil, N., van Zanten, S. V., Kahrilas, P., Dent, J., & Jones, R. (2006). The Montreal definition and classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a global evidence-based consensus. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 101(8), 1900–1920.
- Kilic, G. S., et al. (2021). The impact of postural changes on the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences, 51(1), 234–240.
- Gleberzon, B. J., Arts, J., Mei, A., & McManus, E. L. (2010). Chiropractic management of a pediatric patient with gastroesophageal reflux disorder: A case report. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, 2010(3), 87–92.