Can GERD Cause Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades

What is GERD & Acid Reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the chronic, more severe form of acid reflux. It occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash irritates the lining of your esophagus, causing the familiar burning sensation of heartburn.

This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve at the bottom of the esophagus, weakens or relaxes when it shouldn’t, allowing stomach contents to escape upwards.

Common Symptoms of GERD

• Heartburn: A burning pain in your chest, usually after eating, which might be worse at night.
• Regurgitation: A sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into your throat or mouth.
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
• Chronic cough or hoarseness.
• Nausea and sometimes vomiting.

The Link Between GERD and Back Pain Explained

So, can GERD cause back pain between the shoulder blades? Yes, absolutely. The connection lies in a phenomenon called “referred pain.”

Your esophagus and the muscles/nerves in your upper-to-mid back share nerve pathways to the brain. When the esophagus becomes inflamed and irritated from acid reflux, it sends out intense pain signals. Because of the shared nerve network, your brain can get confused and misinterpret these signals as originating from your back. This referred pain is why you might feel discomfort in your shoulder, shoulder blade, or upper back, even though the root issue is digestive.

The intensity of heartburn can be so significant that the pain literally radiates from your chest through to your back, causing that distinct pain between the shoulder blades after eating.

Is Your Upper Back Pain From GERD or Heartburn?

Not all back pain is created equal. To determine if your discomfort is linked to indigestion or GERD, look for these key signs:

• Timing is Everything: The pain often appears or worsens shortly after eating, especially after large, fatty, or spicy meals.
• Positional Pain: Lying down or bending over can trigger or intensify the back pain, just as it does with heartburn.
• Relief from Antacids (A Clue): If taking a digestive aid not only helps your heartburn but also eases your back pain, that’s a strong indicator the two are connected.
• The Company it Keeps: The back pain is often accompanied by other classic GERD symptoms like chest pain, a sour taste, or a chronic cough.

How to Relieve Back Pain From GERD: 3 Natural Aids

If you suspect GERD is the culprit behind your back pain, the solution isn’t a new mattress—it’s managing the reflux. Many people mistakenly believe GERD is caused by too much stomach acid, but it’s often the opposite: low stomach acid. The most effective strategy is to support your body’s natural digestive process.

When to See a Doctor: Could It Be Something Else?

While GERD is a common cause of pain between the shoulder blades, it’s crucial to rule out more serious conditions. The pain from acid reflux can sometimes mimic other issues, including life-threatening ones.

How to Improve Stomach Acid Naturally

Beyond supplements, you can support a healthy gut health diet with these natural strategies:

Preventing Future GERD-Related Pain

To keep GERD and its referred back pain at bay, consistency is key. Adopt these long-term habits:

• Identify Trigger Foods: Keep a food diary to pinpoint the worst foods for your gut health (common culprits include caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and fried foods).
• Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: This prevents overwhelming your stomach.
• Don’t Lie Down After Eating: Wait at least 3 hours before lying down or going to bed.
• Elevate Your Head: Use a wedge pillow or blocks under the head of your bed to let gravity help keep acid down.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts pressure on your abdomen and the LES valve.

Frequently Asked Questions