At Thrive Body Clinic, we are committed to addressing various health concerns using a holistic approach. One condition that many people struggle with, but may not immediately associate with osteopathy, is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This chronic digestive disorder affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly diminish one’s quality of life if not properly managed. Here, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of GERD and how osteopathy can provide relief and long-term benefits.

What is GERD?

GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus (the tube connecting your mouth and stomach). This backwash, or acid reflux, can irritate the lining of your oesophagus, leading to symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe pain. While occasional acid reflux is normal, GERD refers to a more persistent issue where acid reflux occurs more than twice a week. Over time, if left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as oesophageal inflammation, ulcers, or even oesophageal cancer in severe cases.

Causes of GERD

There are several factors that contribute to GERD, and they often vary from one person to another. Common causes include:

1. Weakness of the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LES):
   The LES is a ring of muscle at the junction of the oesophagus and stomach that acts like a valve, allowing food and liquid to pass into the stomach. When the LES becomes weak or relaxes abnormally, stomach acid can flow back into the oesophagus. This is one of the main causes of GERD.
2. Obesity:
   Excess body weight puts pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents up into the oesophagus. Obesity is a significant risk factor for GERD.
3. Hiatal Hernia:
   A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm. This can make it easier for acid to move into the oesophagus, contributing to reflux.
4. Diet and Lifestyle Factors:
   Certain foods and beverages such as spicy foods, fatty meals, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks can relax the LES and trigger acid reflux. Smoking and overeating can also exacerbate GERD symptoms.
5. Pregnancy:
   Hormonal changes and the increased pressure on the stomach during pregnancy can lead to acid reflux. Many women experience GERD during their pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester.
6. Other Factors:
   Certain medications, such as muscle relaxers and antihistamines, can weaken the LES, while stress, sleep disturbances, and rapid eating may exacerbate GERD symptoms.

Common Symptoms of GERD

While heartburn is the most recognized symptom of GERD, this condition can manifest in several other ways:

• Persistent Heartburn:
  A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating, that might worsen when lying down or bending over.
• Regurgitation:
  The sensation of stomach acid or food coming back up into your mouth or throat.
• Chest Pain:
  Some people experience chest pain that may mimic heart problems, which can lead to anxiety or confusion.
• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia):
  This symptom arises when GERD causes narrowing or irritation of the esophagus, making swallowing difficult or painful.
• Chronic Cough or Throat Issues:
  Acid reflux can irritate the throat and respiratory tract, leading to a persistent cough, sore throat, or a sensation of a lump in the throat.
• Voice Hoarseness:
  Repeated exposure to stomach acid can damage the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or a change in voice.
• Bad Breath:
  GERD can cause unpleasant odours from the mouth due to regurgitated stomach contents.

How Osteopathy Can Help with GERD

You may wonder how osteopathy, which focuses on the musculoskeletal system, can provide relief for a condition like GERD. At Thrive Body Clinic, we approach GERD holistically, addressing the underlying causes and aiming to restore balance and function to the body. Osteopathy can help in several ways:

1. Restoring Diaphragmatic Function

The diaphragm plays a crucial role in controlling acid reflux. A well-functioning diaphragm supports the oesophagus and helps maintain the integrity of the LES, preventing acid from moving upwards. If there is tension or dysfunction in the diaphragm, it can contribute to GERD symptoms. Osteopathic manipulation can help release tension in the diaphragm and surrounding muscles, improving its function and reducing reflux.

2. Addressing Hiatal Hernia

If a hiatal hernia is contributing to your GERD symptoms, an osteopath can use gentle manual techniques to release tension in the tissues surrounding the hernia. This can help reduce the hernia’s impact and potentially ease the pressure causing acid reflux. In some cases, an osteopath may also work on the alignment of the thoracic spine, which can indirectly affect the oesophagus and stomach.

3. Improving Posture and Reducing Abdominal Pressure

Poor posture, especially slumping or hunching, can increase pressure on the stomach, exacerbating reflux symptoms. An osteopath will assess your posture and provide guidance on how to improve it. By aligning the spine, releasing muscular tension, and promoting better posture, osteopathy can help relieve some of the abdominal pressure that contributes to GERD.

4. Enhancing the Body’s Overall Function

Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to health. By improving overall body alignment, blood flow, and nerve function, osteopathic treatments can support the body’s ability to heal itself. This may involve work on the spine, pelvis, and even the cranial structures to ensure that the nervous system, digestive system, and musculoskeletal system are all functioning optimally.

5. Stress Reduction

Stress can aggravate GERD symptoms, as it leads to tension in the body and poor digestion. Osteopathic treatment focuses on reducing tension throughout the body, promoting relaxation, and calming the nervous system. By alleviating stress and encouraging relaxation, osteopathy can help minimize one of the contributing factors to GERD flare-ups.

Lifestyle and Self-Care Tips

While osteopathic treatments are a valuable tool in managing GERD, incorporating lifestyle changes can further enhance your results:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overloading the stomach.
• Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.
• Elevate the head of your bed to reduce acid reflux during sleep.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your abdomen.
• Quit smoking if applicable, as smoking can weaken the LES.
• Practice mindful eating by eating slowly and chewing thoroughly.

Conclusion

GERD can be an uncomfortable and persistent condition, but it doesn’t have to control your life. At Thrive Body Clinic, we believe in a comprehensive approach to managing GERD. Through osteopathic treatment, we aim to not only relieve the immediate symptoms but also address the root causes of the condition. If you’re struggling with GERD and looking for a natural, holistic approach to treatment, consider booking a consultation with us today. Let us help you take the first step toward better digestive health and overall wellness.