The esophagus “ propulsion” located in your throat near your trachea, the esophagus receives food from your mouth when you swallow. Its main effect is to squeeze food along the tract, some mixtures occur as well. The major means of propulsion involves alternating waves of contraction and relaxation of muscles in the organ wall. At either end of the esophagus are ring-shaped muscles (the upper and lower esophageal sphincters), which open and close. The esophageal sphincters normally prevent the contents of the stomach from flowing back into the esophagus or throat.
