Musculus gracilis
The gracilis is a broad, flat muscle on the medial thigh. It originates from the pelvic symphysis and prepubic tendon and inserts on the tibial crest and the crural fascia. Its actions are to adduct the hind limb, extend the hip, and flex the stifle. It is innervated by the obturator nerve (roughly L4–L6). It contributes to the visible muscular contour of the inner thigh and forms the caudal border of the femoral triangle. The symphysial tendon formed by the right and left gracilis muscles is a palpable landmark. The muscle helps keep the hind limbs under the body during locomotion and contributes to the overall adductor group.
Origin: Pelvic symphysis and prepubic tendon
Insertion: Tibial crest and crural fascia
Action: Adducts the hindlimb; extends the hip; flexes the stifle
Innervation: Obturator nerve (L4-L6)
Isolated injury is uncommon. It can be strained with trauma or extreme adduction. Obturator-nerve damage (rare) can affect it along with other adductors. The muscle is a useful landmark during examination of the medial thigh and femoral triangle.
## Overview Post-foaling gracilis injury or adductor paralysis occurs when the obturator nerve is compressed during a difficult birth, paralyzing the gracilis and other adductor muscles. The mare can
Swelling or heat on the inside of the thigh after a slip or collision should be evaluated. Most soft-tissue strains improve with rest. Persistent medial thigh pain or swelling needs veterinary assessment.
## Overview Post-foaling gracilis injury or adductor paralysis occurs when the obturator nerve is compressed during a difficult birth, paralyzing the gracilis and other adductor muscles. The mare cannot bring her hind limbs together and may splay. Hobbles are used to prevent further damage. Most recover over days to weeks if secondary injuries are avoided. ## Causes Nerve compression during dystocia. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs immediately after foaling. ## Treatment Hobbles, excellent footing, anti-inflammatories, and nursing care. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good if splaying injuries are prevented. ## Prevention Assistance with difficult foalings and immediate hobbling if weakness is seen. Signs include: inability to adduct the hind limbs after foaling; splaying; difficulty standing; need for hobbles
Isolated injury is uncommon. It can be strained with trauma or extreme adduction. Obturator-nerve damage (rare) can affect it along with other adductors. The muscle is a useful landmark during examination of the medial thigh and femoral triangle.
Swelling or heat on the inside of the thigh after a slip or collision should be evaluated. Most soft-tissue strains improve with rest. Persistent medial thigh pain or swelling needs veterinary assessment.
See the Gracilis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model