What is cricopharyngeal spasm?

What is cricopharyngeal spasm?

The cricopharyngeal muscle — sometimes called the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) — is located at the top portion of your esophagus (food pipe). This muscle contracts to open and close the esophagus, allowing food and liquid to pass through. In people with cricopharyngeal spasm, this muscle contracts too much. When this happens, you can still swallow but your throat feels uncomfortable.