Vertebrae cervicales
Horses have seven cervical vertebrae. C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) are highly specialized to allow the head to nod and rotate. The remaining cervical vertebrae (C3–C7) are large and permit the extensive flexion, extension, and lateral bending needed for grazing, balance, and athletic movement. The neck also functions as a balancing rod during locomotion. The spinal cord runs through the vertebral canal. Narrowing of the canal (cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy / “wobbler” syndrome), articular process osteoarthritis, or trauma can compress the cord and produce ataxia or weakness. Radiography, myelography, and advanced imaging are used for diagnosis.
Origin: N/A (bone)
Insertion: N/A (bone)
Action: Support the head and neck; allow flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation; the neck acts as a balancing rod during locomotion
Cervical vertebral compressive myelopathy is a common cause of ataxia in young horses. Articular process joint disease can cause neck stiffness and, in some cases, nerve-root signs. Fractures occur from falls or collisions. A thorough neurologic examination plus imaging is required.
## Overview Cervical vertebral fracture is a break in one of the seven neck vertebrae, most often from trauma such as falling over backward, collision, or a severe fall. Fractures can be stable or un
## Overview Cervical facet joint osteoarthritis is degeneration of the synovial articulations between the articular processes of the cervical vertebrae. Radiographic changes are common even in clinic
Wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy, is a neurologic condition caused by compression of the spinal cord in the neck. It leads to progressive incoordination (ataxia),
A young horse that is unsteady behind, drags its toes, or has a wide-based stance may have cervical cord compression; have it evaluated promptly. Sudden neck pain or reluctance to lower the head after trauma needs veterinary attention. Never force a neurologic horse to move if it is unsafe.
## Overview Cervical vertebral fracture is a break in one of the seven neck vertebrae, most often from trauma such as falling over backward, collision, or a severe fall. Fractures can be stable or unstable and may or may not compress the spinal cord. Clinical signs range from neck pain and stiffness to ataxia, paresis, or sudden death. ## Causes High-energy trauma is the usual cause. Pathologic fracture from bone disease is rare. ## Diagnosis Acute neck pain or neurologic deficits after trauma raise suspicion. Radiographs, and often computed tomography, confirm the fracture and assess canal compromise. Careful handling is essential during transport and imaging. ## Treatment Stable fractures with minimal cord compression may be managed with strict stall rest and anti-inflammatories. Unstable fractures or progressive neurologic signs may require surgical stabilization when feasible. Many severe cases result in euthanasia. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is guarded and depends on stability and neurologic grade. Some horses with stable fractures return to use; significant cord damage carries a poor outlook. ## Prevention Minimizing high-risk situations is the only practical measure. Signs include: acute neck pain; reluctance to move the neck; ataxia or weakness; recumbency; sudden death in catastrophic cases
## Overview Cervical facet joint osteoarthritis is degeneration of the synovial articulations between the articular processes of the cervical vertebrae. Radiographic changes are common even in clinically normal horses, so diagnosis requires correlation with clinical signs such as neck stiffness, muscle atrophy, or forelimb lameness that is not abolished by distal limb blocks. The caudal cervical joints are most often affected. ## Causes Repetitive loading, conformational factors, and prior trauma contribute. The condition is frequently bilateral and multi-level. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs plus radiographic or ultrasonographic evidence of osteophytes and joint remodeling support the diagnosis. Nuclear scintigraphy may show increased uptake. Intra-articular analgesia can confirm clinical relevance. ## Treatment Ultrasound-guided intra-articular corticosteroid injections are the most common intervention and allow many horses to return to work. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy, and workload modification are adjuncts. ## Recovery and Prognosis Most treated horses improve sufficiently for athletic use, at least temporarily. The condition is progressive, so repeat injections or management changes are often needed. ## Prevention No specific prevention is proven. Sensible training and early attention to neck stiffness may slow clinical expression. Signs include: neck stiffness; resistance to bending; muscle atrophy over the neck; forelimb lameness not abolished by lower-limb blocks; reduced performance
Wobbler syndrome, also known as cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy, is a neurologic condition caused by compression of the spinal cord in the neck. It leads to progressive incoordination (ataxia), primarily in the hind limbs. There are two main forms: Type I (dynamic compression in young horses) and Type II (static compression in older horses due to osteoarthritis). ## What it is In Type I wobbler syndrome, developmental abnormalities of the cervical vertebrae cause narrowing of the vertebral canal and dynamic compression of the spinal cord during neck movement. It typically affects horses between 1 and 4 years of age, most commonly at C3 to C5. Type II wobbler involves static compression from osteoarthritic enlargement of the articular facets, usually affecting older horses at C5 to C7. Both forms result in damage to the spinal cord, leading to proprioceptive deficits and ataxia that is usually worse in the hind limbs. ## Signs and symptoms - Progressive hindlimb incoordination and ataxia - Wide-based stance and stumbling, especially when turning or going downhill - Toe dragging and difficulty backing - Neck stiffness or pain in some cases - In severe cases, weakness or falling - Symmetric or slightly asymmetric ataxia that is worse in the hind limbs than forelimbs - Positive cervical flexion test in many cases ## Causes and risk factors Type I wobbler is developmental and linked to rapid growth, genetic factors, and nutritional imbalances (especially copper deficiency or excess protein/calcium in young horses). Type II is associated with chronic wear and osteoarthritis of the cervical facet joints. Risk factors include large body size, rapid growth rates in young horses, and conformational issues that place abnormal stress on the neck. ## How it is diagnosed Diagnosis is based on clinical neurologic examination and confirmed with radiographs and myelography or MRI. Standing or recumbent radiographs can show vertebral canal narrowing or facet joint changes. Myelography or MRI provides the most accurate assessment of spinal cord compression. A neurologic grading system helps quantify the severity of ataxia. ## Treatment and management Treatment depends on the type, severity, and age of the horse. Conservative management includes stall rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and controlled exercise. For young horses with Type I, dietary management and restricted growth may help. Surgical options (ventral interbody fusion or dorsal laminectomy) are available for selected cases and can improve neurologic function in many horses. Prognosis varies widely depending on the severity and duration of compression before treatment. ## When to call the vet Contact your veterinarian promptly if your horse shows incoordination, stumbling, or difficulty backing or turning. Early diagnosis improves the chance of successful management or surgical intervention. ## Prevention For Type I wobbler in young horses, prevention focuses on balanced nutrition (avoiding excessive protein and calcium while ensuring adequate copper and other minerals) and avoiding overly rapid growth rates. Regular monitoring of at-risk young horses can help with early detection. ## Frequently asked questions **Can a horse with wobbler syndrome be ridden?** Many horses with mild to moderate signs can be ridden carefully after treatment, but those with severe ataxia are usually retired for safety reasons. **Is surgery always successful for wobbler syndrome?** Surgical success rates are good in appropriately selected cases, but results vary depending on the severity and chronicity of spinal cord damage. **Is wobbler syndrome hereditary?** There is a genetic component, especially in Type I. Breeding horses with wobbler syndrome or from lines with high incidence is generally discouraged. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of your horse. Signs include: Progressive hindlimb incoordination and ataxia; wide-based stance and stumbling, especially when turning or going downhill; toe dragging and difficulty backing; neck stiffness or pain in some cases; in severe cases, weakness or falling; symmetric or slightly asymmetric ataxia worse in hind limbs; positive cervical flexion test in many cases
Cervical vertebral compressive myelopathy is a common cause of ataxia in young horses. Articular process joint disease can cause neck stiffness and, in some cases, nerve-root signs. Fractures occur from falls or collisions. A thorough neurologic examination plus imaging is required.
A young horse that is unsteady behind, drags its toes, or has a wide-based stance may have cervical cord compression; have it evaluated promptly. Sudden neck pain or reluctance to lower the head after trauma needs veterinary attention. Never force a neurologic horse to move if it is unsafe.
See the Cervical Vertebrae (C1-C7) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model