Vertebra caudalis 1 (Cd1)
Horses typically have 15–21 caudal (coccygeal) vertebrae that form the tail. The most proximal ones (Cd1–Cd3) retain more typical vertebral anatomy, transverse processes and, in some cases, hemal arches; before the vertebrae become progressively simpler and rod-like farther down the tail. These proximal caudal vertebrae are surrounded by the powerful sacrocaudalis and intertransversarii muscles that move and stabilize the tail. They contribute to the mechanical link between the pelvis and the rest of the vertebral column via the sacroiliac region, although the main force transmission occurs through the sacrum. Fractures can occur from falls backward or other trauma. Reduced tail tone can be a sign of sacral or cauda equina disease.
Origin: N/A (bone)
Insertion: N/A (bone)
Action: Transmits hindlimb thrust to the vertebral column via the sacroiliac joint; anchors the pelvis
Proximal caudal vertebral fractures are possible after a horse falls backward or is struck. Reduced or absent tail tone, incontinence, or hind-limb weakness may indicate sacral fracture, cauda equina syndrome, or other neurologic disease affecting the nerves that exit in this region. Radiographs or advanced imaging are used when indicated.
## Overview Tail fracture is a break of one or more caudal vertebrae from direct trauma such as kicks, catching the tail in a door, or improper tail wrapping. The tail may deviate, swell, show crepit
## Overview Coccygeal vertebral arthritis is osteoarthritis of the joints between the vertebrae of the tail. It is uncommon as a primary clinical problem but can produce tail stiffness, pain on manip
A horse that cannot lift or move its tail normally, or that shows hind-limb weakness after a fall, needs veterinary evaluation. Never pull hard on a horse’s tail, especially in a neurologic animal, because of the risk of further injury.
## Overview Tail fracture is a break of one or more caudal vertebrae from direct trauma such as kicks, catching the tail in a door, or improper tail wrapping. The tail may deviate, swell, show crepitus, and hang limply below the fracture site. ## Causes Trauma. ## Diagnosis Palpation and radiographs. ## Treatment Rest. Most heal without surgery. Severely unstable or open fractures may need stabilization or partial amputation in rare cases. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good. A permanent kink may remain. ## Prevention Careful handling of the tail and safe stable design. Signs include: deviation of the tail; swelling; pain on palpation; crepitus; tail may hang limply below the fracture
## Overview Coccygeal vertebral arthritis is osteoarthritis of the joints between the vertebrae of the tail. It is uncommon as a primary clinical problem but can produce tail stiffness, pain on manipulation, or reduced tail tone and carriage. Trauma or repetitive strain are the usual triggers. ## Causes Direct trauma, falls, or chronic repetitive loading of the tail. Degenerative change can also occur with age. ## Diagnosis Palpation and manipulation of the tail elicit pain or reveal reduced mobility. Radiographs confirm osteophytes or joint-space changes when clinically indicated. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and avoidance of further trauma. Most cases are managed conservatively. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for comfort. Residual stiffness may remain. ## Prevention Minimizing tail trauma. Signs include: pain on tail manipulation; reduced tail mobility or abnormal carriage; reluctance to have the tail handled
Proximal caudal vertebral fractures are possible after a horse falls backward or is struck. Reduced or absent tail tone, incontinence, or hind-limb weakness may indicate sacral fracture, cauda equina syndrome, or other neurologic disease affecting the nerves that exit in this region. Radiographs or advanced imaging are used when indicated.
A horse that cannot lift or move its tail normally, or that shows hind-limb weakness after a fall, needs veterinary evaluation. Never pull hard on a horse’s tail, especially in a neurologic animal, because of the risk of further injury.
See the Caudal Vertebra (Cd1 - First Coccygeal) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model