Difficulty Swallowing in Spartanburg? Why Families Trust Dr. Margaret Shreve’s Upper Cervical Care
If you’ve ever felt that split‑second panic when swallowing just isn’t working right, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it in the dark. Whether it’s food catching in your throat, that tight “something stuck” feeling, or even gagging on your own saliva, swallowing trouble is not only scary—it changes how you show up for your family, work, and peace of mind.
At Sunshine Chiropractic in Spartanburg County, we meet families every week who are used to “pushing through” discomfort. But then something happens that stops even the busiest parent or professional in their tracks: swallowing stops working like it used to.
Let me introduce you to Jan—a story that mirrors so many working adults and parents in our community. Her journey shows why Upper Cervical chiropractic care is becoming the resource more and more Spartanburg families turn to when health hits a wall.
Jan’s Story: When Neck & Arm Pain Were Just the Beginning
Jan is a typical Spartanburg County mom and professional—balancing a demanding job, household duties, and endless car‑pools. Neck and arm aches were manageable… until she bumped her head at the pool one weekend.
Initially it was just neck/arm pain. But then: during dinner she felt her throat tighten, and that night she even gagged on her own saliva.
That was the line in the sand. Uncertainty replaced patience—and that’s when she called our office.
Why Swallowing Problems Push People to Take Action
A sore neck? You might wait it out. But difficulty swallowing? That hits differently. It brings fear—“Will I lose my independence? Miss work? Let my family down?”
When standard explanations (“acid reflux”, “anxiety”, “age‑related” ) don’t fit, the search for answers can feel endless.
But here’s what many don’t realize: Swallowing is a complex system guided by your nervous system—and when the top of your spine is misaligned, that system can break down.
The Upper Cervical–Nervous System Connection Families in Spartanburg Need to Know
The act of swallowing is anything but simple. It’s a finely tuned dance between your brain, throat, jaw, and neck muscles. The top two vertebrae in your neck (the atlas C1 and axis C2) protect the brainstem and major nerve pathways. When they shift—even slightly—it can interfere with the signals that control swallowing, breathing, digestion, sleep—even immune function.
Research links cervical spine instability to swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). PMC+3Caring Medical+3PMC+3 That means what looks like a throat issue could be a nervous‑system issue rooted in your upper neck.
At Sunshine Chiropractic, our focus is on gentle, precise Upper Cervical adjustments that help restore communication between brain and body—so your system can regulate, adapt, and heal.
What Upper Cervical Care for Swallowing Problems Looks Like
Important note: Not all swallowing problems belong to chiropractic care. If you experience sudden, severe symptoms (like difficulty breathing, sudden voice changes, or sudden weight loss), seek emergency help first.
For patients like Jan—with a history of neck injury, muscle tension, or chronic nerve symptoms—the approach is:
A full case history + exam + sometimes imaging to understand the root cause
Gentle, specific Upper Cervical adjustments (no twisting, no “cracking backs”)
Complementary support for nervous system function: sleep, stress management, movement, immune health
In Jan’s case, within a short course of care she reported: less throat tension, fewer gag episodes, stronger voice, more ease at meals. Her work days returned to normal. Her evenings became calm again.
Why Spartanburg Families Choose Sunshine Chiropractic
Whole‑family care: Adults, kids—even children with neurological issues—get support here.
Less medicine, less sick time: We specialize in systems support, not just symptom relief.
Personalized attention: We see your life, work, and family—not just your scan results.
Local dedication: Based in Spartanburg County, we prioritize our community’s wellness and vitality.
Could Upper Cervical Care Be the Missing Link for You?
If you’re experiencing swallowing issues and you have:
A history of neck trauma or injury
Long‑standing neck or arm symptoms
Been told “it’s just reflux / age / anxiety” but you don’t feel confident in that explanation
…then yes, it’s worth booking a consult.
Let’s talk about your history, your goals, and whether Upper Cervical care is the right step for you.
📍 Serving Spartanburg County (including Landrum, Duncan, Boiling Springs).
Book your consult with Dr. Margaret Shreve at Sunshine Chiropractic today, and see why families are choosing nervous‑system‑based care for lasting health.
