Articles

The Relationship between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Musculoskeletal Complaints

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Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal problem that can affect many body systems. Studies have suggested a possible connection between GERD and musculoskeletal complaints, but the relationship is not fully clear

Objective: This study examined the relationship between GERD and musculoskeletal complaints in patients treated at Siloam Hospitals Balikpapan.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 60 participants, divided into 30 GERD and 30 non-GERD patients. Musculoskeletal symptoms were measured using the Indonesian version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Data were analyzed with the Shapiro–Wilk test, Spearman correlation, and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results: Back pain (55%), waist pain (45%), and left shoulder pain (41.7%) were the most frequent complaints. The total musculoskeletal score was higher in the GERD group (279) than in the non-GERD group (65). The data were not normally distributed (p < 0.001). There was a moderate positive correlation between GERD and musculoskeletal complaints (r = 0.460, p < 0.001). The Mann–Whitney test also showed a significant difference between groups (U = 283.5, Z = −3.536, p < 0.001.

Conclusion: GERD is related to higher and more widespread musculoskeletal complaints. Screening for musculoskeletal symptoms in GERD patients may help improve early management and patient quality of life.

Problems of Distribution and Pathophysiology of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

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This article provides an overview of the literature data on the problem of the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Some pathophysiological aspects of this pathology are analyzed. The authors conclude that gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common clinical problem that affects millions of people around the world, according to some reports, up to 25–30% of the adult population is affected by it. Patients are recognized by both classic and atypical symptoms. GERD is associated with lifestyle factors, in particular obesity and tobacco smoking, which also threatens overall health.