Acid reflux, also known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Refux Disease) is a condition in which food is sent back from the stomach into the esophagus (food pipe), leading to a burning sensation. The condition might be caused by a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is an underlying condition referred to as hiatal hernia, in which the stomach is displaced from its original position, to an abnormal position above the diaphragm. It can also be caused by an abnormality in the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter), which is like a muscular ring that seals the lower end of the esophagus, preventing the food from moving back into it.
Chiropractic care for the disorder is rapidly gaining popularity as a means of treating acid reflux. This treatment option follows a varied approach for the management of the disorder, depending on the underlying cause. It is most efficient for the cure of acid reflux caused by hiatal hernia. This being a mechanical problem, caused by the displacement of the stomach, is treated mechanically, by using manual chiropractic techniques to return the stomach back to its original position. While the administration of antacids in a patient with hiatal hernia might cause temporary relief from the discomfort, it fails to address the underlying cause, which is efficiently treated by chiropractic methods.
In patients who are not suffering from hiatal hernia, chiropractic treatment focuses on the nerves that are responsible for supplying signals to the stomach and the esophagus. These nerves, which are present in the mid-back are adjusted over a few sessions with a chiropractor, eventually leading to complete relief from the disorder. This method has also been found to relieve acid reflux in young infants. According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, 16 infants were found to experience complete relief from colic or acid reflux, after undergoing chiropractic treatment. The problem in these infants was found to be in the neck region, following difficult births.
Chiropractic treatment for acid reflux also suggests lifestyle modification along with the treatment. Patients are advised to stay away from caffeinated beverages, smoking, alcohol, drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, and soda etc. Interestingly, according to chiropractic principles, the administration of antacids, which is most common line of treatment for acid reflux, only aggravates digestive problems in patients in the long run. Dr. Eugene Goldberg, a Pittsburgh based chiropractor recommends the administration of HCL with food to patients above 40, to improve digestion, explaining that most of these patients suffer from an acid deficiency. Chiropractic treatment for the disease thus makes perfect sense physiologically.
If you are seeking a chiropractor in Killeen, Fort Hood, Harker Heights, Nolanville, Belton, Lampasas or Gatesville, visit us at Corrective Chiropractic and Wellness. We are located at 560 E. Central Texas Expressway, Suite 102, Harker Heights, TX 76548. You can also call us at (254) 698-1600.
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