Hiatal Hernia: Causes and Treatment Options

Hiatal hernias are painful and cause severe acid reflux that can leave an individual in near chronic pain and completely reliant on OTC and prescription antacids. Traditional medical treatment calls for surgery in order to repair the hernia and put the stomach back into its proper position. Here at Michaux Family Chiropractic, we offer holistic treatment options for hiatal hernias that will reduce your need for antacids and surgery.

Hiatal Hernia Causes

Hiatal hernias are caused by a weakness in the muscles of the diaphragm or constant excess pressure on the stomach that pushes it upwards. Both of these can cause a part of the upper stomach, around the esophagus, to bulge through the diaphragm. Once this happens, you have a hiatal hernia. Symptoms include acid reflux and ulcerations.

During a bout of severe acid reflux, you may be tempted to take an antacid, which temporarily relieves the symptoms. Unfortunately, taking antacids for an extended period of time can reduce the amount of acid in your stomach to insufficient levels, which causes other stomach and intestinal problems. Thankfully, we offer treatment options that do not involve surgery, which can have long recovery times and temporarily leave you without a paycheck.

Treatment Options from our Chiropractor in Clermont

Our chiropractor in Clermont utilizes several different treatment option to lessen the symptoms of hiatal hernias, including chiropractic adjustments, diet changes and abdominal strengthening exercises. The chiropractic adjustments can help more your stomach into its correct position below the diaphragm. The diet adjustments can help lessen the symptoms of acid reflux by removing the foods that cause you the most pain and suggesting healthier, low acid options. In cases where the hernia is thought to be cause by weak muscles, exercises will be given to you that still strengthen your abdominal muscles and your diaphragm. This will help reduce symptoms and prevent the hernia from worsening or reoccurring.

Did you know that chiropractic care can lessen the symptoms of hiatal hernias?