Steve,
Have you seen a gastroenterologist? I also have GERD with the same painful symptoms you describe. Sometimes I feel that I need to be burped like a baby. It is particularly bad when I eat cold chicken or turkey with skin or fatty meat like the end piece of a roast or when I overeat. I have been on both Nexium and Prilosec and found the Nexium works better for me. I asked what to do about the indigestion and the Gastroenterologist said I could take Zantac. (Some of my problem is also due to the fact that I had gall bladder surgery.)
I find that meat is easier to swallow if I use a little mayo, ketchup, gravy, bbq sauce, etc. Also, hot food is better than cold.
Do get the GERD under control as it can lead to serious problems with the esophagus.

Wishing you good health,
Malka