Pediatric Feeding Therapy for GERD
in Bentonville, AR
Is your child constantly dealing with heartburn, vomiting, or tummy troubles? For children with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), these symptoms cause more than just occasional discomfort. They can actually interfere with eating and sleeping. If left untreated, these symptoms can prevent your child from getting the nutrients their body needs for their health and growth.
The good news is that there’s a solution for children who struggle with this condition. At No Limits Pediatric Therapies, we offer feeding therapy to help children with GERD find relief and enjoy mealtimes without pain. Our expert team uses proven and play-based strategies to help your child eat comfortably and enjoy mealtimes with family.
What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is when stomach contents flow backwards into the esophagus. This can cause pain and discomfort, just like heartburn or indigestion.
While reflux is more common for babies, it isn’t common for children to experience reflux. When it happens frequently or causes problems like pain or poor growth, it’s often diagnosed as GERD.
GERD can affect your child’s ability to eat and digest food properly, and it may lead to feeding aversions or other challenges if it’s left untreated.
Common Signs of GERD in Children
Children with GERD may exhibit various symptoms. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Frequent spitting up or vomiting
- Coughing, wheezing, or hoarse voice after meals
- Refusing to eat or difficulty feeding
- Arching of the back during or after feeding
- Crying or fussiness during or after feeding
- Gaining weight slowly, or losing weight
- Complaining of pain or discomfort in the throat, chest, or stomach
What Causes GERD?
There is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter which separates the esophagus from the stomach. Its purpose is to open when food or drink travels down the esophagus to let it enter the stomach, and close afterward for digestion.
If that muscle is weak, then it can open when it’s not supposed to and allow the contents of the stomach to flow back up into the esophagus. This can happen if your baby was born prematurely or if they have a condition that impacts their muscles, such as cerebral palsy.
How Feeding Therapy Helps Children with GERD
At No Limits Pediatric Therapies, our skilled feeding therapists help children manage GERD symptoms with proven feeding strategies. We assess each child’s unique needs and design a personalized plan to make eating more comfortable. Your child’s treatment may include exercises to improve swallowing, positioning techniques to reduce reflux, and gradual exposure to foods that previously triggered symptoms.
Our therapists work closely with families to provide tips and strategies for use at home. With our help, your child can enjoy meals, stay nourished, and overcome the daily challenges of GERD for a future with no limits.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experts
Do you think your child might be struggling with GERD? No Limits offers a free 15-minute consultation to help you get answers and find out how we can help.
During this consultation, you’ll discuss your concerns with one of our experts and learn if feeding therapy is the solution your child needs. Call (479) 250-9838 to schedule your consultation today!
