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

Abstract : 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.