Managing GERD Back Pain: Effective Solutions & Tips

Are you experiencing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and back pain? This article explains how your back pain symptoms and GERD can be connected. We explain what is causing it and what you can do about it. We also aim to equip you with knowledge on managing GERD-related back pain longer term and how to prevent it from arising.

What is GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is chronic acid reflux. This is when stomach acid frequently flows back into your esophagus, causing a range of uncomfortable acid reflux symptoms that can disrupt your daily life. Common signs of GERD include a burning sensation in your chest, known as heartburn, and a sour taste in your mouth.

The primary issue in GERD is the malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter. Put more simply, the muscle that is supposed to keep stomach acids where they belong, in unable to do so effectively.

When this muscle does not function properly, acid and food can flow back up, leading to back pain and other symptoms such as sore throats and difficulty swallowing. Risk factors for developing acid reflux include obesity, smoking, and certain dietary habits.

How does GERD cause chronic pain?

You may be surprised to learn that acid reflux can be linked to back pain. Imagine your esophagus and the nerves in your back as interconnected. When GERD causes inflammation in the esophagus, it can send pain signals to your back, particularly between your shoulder blades. This is known as "referred pain."

This pain is real and often feels like a burning sensation in the middle of your back. If you notice this type of pain after eating acidic foods, GERD could be the cause.

Additionally, persistent stress can contribute to the onset of GERD-induced back pain and also exacerbate symptoms. Stress can heighten the sensitivity of your nervous system – a disordered state that is also known as central sensitization – causing you to experience heightened pain responses1. In this state, your central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord) becomes hyperactive, transforming normal sensations into painful experiences, even when there's no actual injury or threat present.

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Complications of untreated GERD

Ignoring the symptoms of GERD is not merely a matter of enduring discomfort; it is a risky gamble against serious health issues. Untreated acid reflux can lead to complications such as Barrett’s esophagus, which significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer and negatively impacts the quality of life.

Excess weight or obesity also escalates the likelihood of developing esophageal cancer. Persistent acid reflux can evolve into high-grade dysplasia, a condition with a high potential to turn into malignant cells. Addressing the risk factors associated with GERD is a critical measure to protect your wellbeing for years to come.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you consistently face the challenges of GERD symptoms and back pain that don't improve with home care and lifestyle changes, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. Enduring such discomfort should not become a normal part of your routine, and professional medical advice may be necessary to alleviate your symptoms.

At MoreGoodDays©, we've crafted a program grounded in scientific research to support you in dealing with chronic back pain. Our approach helps dispel common myths about back pain, focusing on understanding its root causes, identifying triggers, and learning to alter your body's reaction to pain using neuroplasticity principles.

We provide tailored coaching and a range of tools to guide you in managing pain, supporting mental health, and enhancing your overall quality of life.

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