Neck extension during swallowing is a sign associated with which phase?

• A. Esophageal/Gastroesophageal phase
• B. Oral preparatory phase
• C. Cricopharyngeal-pharyngeal phase
• D. Regurgitation

Answer: (A)

Neck extension during swallowing reflects the esophageal phase, which is the part of swallowing where the bolus moves from the upper esophageal sphincter down into the stomach. Tilting the head back uses gravity to help the bolus travel into the esophagus and clear any residue from the pharynx, a strategy aligned with esophageal transit rather than the earlier stages. The oral preparatory phase focuses on bolus formation and oral control, and the pharyngeal/cricopharyngeal phase centers on triggering and passing the bolus through the pharynx and opening the upper esophageal sphincter. Regurgitation is backward flow, not a phase of swallowing.