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Acid reflux and GERD are often treated as a medication problem, but the underlying neurological and mechanical contributors respond well to chiropractic care. Many patients reduce or eliminate their reliance on antacids through spinal correction.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and esophageal irritation. While dietary factors and hiatal hernia are often cited causes, the thoracic spine and vagus nerve play a critical role in regulating digestive function — including lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tone. Subluxations in the mid-thoracic spine (T5–T9) irritate the sympathetic nerve supply to the stomach and esophagus, impairing normal LES function. Vagal nerve compromise from upper cervical subluxation further disrupts gastric motility. Chiropractic correction of these levels can meaningfully improve GERD symptoms.
Dr. Foss evaluates the thoracic spine for subluxations — particularly T5 through T9 — that directly control the nerve supply to the stomach and esophagus. SOT thoracic corrections restore normal autonomic nerve function to these digestive structures, improving LES tone and gastric motility. Upper cervical adjustments enhance vagal nerve integrity, which is fundamental to healthy digestive function. Patients often notice a reduction in reflux frequency and severity within a few weeks of consistent thoracic spinal care.
At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.
For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:
Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.
Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.
We are insurance friendly. Bring your insurance card and ID to the office to verify how your insurance can contribute to your care. New patient appointments are available promptly.
Comparing options? See how to choose a chiropractor near me in San Antonio or read our guide on how to choose the best chiropractor in San Antonio.
GERD involves dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter and the diaphragmatic crura that support it. Structural drivers include hiatal hernia, thoracic spine dysfunction affecting the diaphragm and vagus nerve, sustained postural patterns that compress the abdomen, and the effects of chronic stress on vagal tone. Diet and medication factors complete the picture.
Dr. Foss addresses the structural component of GERD: thoracic spine adjustment affects the diaphragmatic crura and the vagal innervation of the lower esophageal sphincter; specific diaphragmatic release techniques can reposition the diaphragm and sometimes reduce hiatal hernia symptoms. Many GERD patients report meaningful reduction in symptoms within several visits.
Most patients notice meaningful symptom reduction within 6–10 visits. Stable improvement typically develops over 12–20 visits across 8–12 weeks. Significant hiatal hernias or H. pylori infection require coordinated medical management for full resolution.
Yes. SOT chiropractic uses gentle techniques appropriate for sensitive patients. Dr. Foss screens for red flags (weight loss, swallowing difficulty, GI bleeding) that warrant gastroenterology workup before initiating conservative care.
Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.
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