A Hiatal Hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm. A Hiatal Hernia can cause feelings of chest pain and abdominal discomfort such as acid reflux. The pain and discomfort level is associated with the size of the Hiatal Hernia. A smaller Hiatal Hernia may not cause any pain or discomfort.
Why do we get a Hiatal Hernia?
A Hiatal Hernia can be caused by a physical stress that puts a strain on the stomach and esophagus, causing the stomach to be pushed through the diaphragm. This includes heavy weight lifting, physical labor, physical trauma, and pregnancy. Conditions like asthma, lung pathologies, and constipation also put a strain on the stomach and esophagus which can cause a Hiatal Hernia.
How does Chiropractic help individuals recover from a Hiatal Hernia?
There is a specific Chiropractic technique used to correct a Hiatal Hernia. Your local San Diego Chiropractor will gently use the palm of the hand to pull the herniated part of the stomach back to its normal position below the diaphragm. This technique will be performed as needed. By keeping the stomach in the proper position, the weakened area of the diaphragm and esophagus are able to heal in order to prevent a Hiatal Hernia from happening again.
In addition, when the joints of the spine are out of alignment, they will compress the nerves associated with the misaligned area. When a nerve is irritated, whatever is at the end of that nerve will not work properly. If it is an organ at the end of the involved nerve (such as the stomach or diaphragm), the organ will not get its proper signal from the brain and will therefore not function properly. Your local San Diego chiropractor will examine the joints of your spine and depending on the results, your chiropractor will determine if a specific chiropractic adjustment to the spine is necessary.
What can you do at home?
Balancing the muscles and fascia in the chest cavity can help to relieve tension that can stress a hernia. Your Chiropractor will analyze the tissue balance and recommend appropriate stretches.