Musculus longissimus cervicis
The longissimus dorsi is the largest epaxial muscle. It originates from the iliac crest, sacrum, and spinous and transverse processes of the lumbar and thoracic vertebrae, and inserts on the transverse and articular processes of more cranial vertebrae and the ribs. Bilateral contraction extends the back and loin; unilateral contraction produces lateral flexion. It stabilizes the vertebral column and transmits propulsive forces from the hindquarters. It is innervated by the dorsal branches of the thoracic and lumbar spinal nerves. The cervical portions (longissimus cervicis, longissimus capitis, and longissimus atlantis) continue the system into the neck and to the atlas or skull. They extend and laterally flex the neck and are important for head carriage and collection. Problems in the longissimus system significantly affect rideability, collection, and impulsion.
Origin: Transverse processes of the first 6-7 thoracic vertebrae
Insertion: Transverse processes of the last 4-5 cervical vertebrae
Action: Extends the neck (bilaterally); lateral flexion (unilaterally)
Innervation: Dorsal branches of cervical and thoracic spinal nerves
Back pain, including kissing spines and sacroiliac dysfunction, commonly manifests as pain and spasm in the longissimus. It is the muscle most often associated with poor performance, reluctance to engage, or resistance under saddle. Diagnostic approaches include clinical examination, ultrasound, and sometimes scintigraphy.
## Overview Cervical stiffness is a clinical sign of reduced willingness or ability to flex, extend, or bend the neck. It has many possible causes, including muscle spasm, facet osteoarthritis, pain
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),
Reluctance to bend, bucking, or poor engagement under saddle can involve the longissimus. Have persistent back issues evaluated rather than assuming simple soreness. Balanced work and correct saddle fit help.
## Overview Cervical stiffness is a clinical sign of reduced willingness or ability to flex, extend, or bend the neck. It has many possible causes, including muscle spasm, facet osteoarthritis, pain from other regions, dental issues, or simply lack of conditioning. It is not a diagnosis by itself. ## Causes See individual entries for muscle spasm, osteoarthritis, and segmental restriction. Systemic illness or neurologic disease can also produce stiffness. ## Diagnosis History, physical and neurologic examination, and motion palpation. Imaging is added when structural disease is suspected. ## Treatment Directed at the underlying cause once identified. Supportive measures include anti-inflammatories and gradual mobilization. ## Recovery and Prognosis Depends entirely on the cause. Most musculoskeletal stiffness improves with appropriate care. ## Prevention Consistent warm-up, balanced work, and prompt attention to early discomfort. Signs include: reluctance to bend or flex the neck; reduced range of motion; resistance under saddle; possible pain on palpation
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
Back pain, including kissing spines and sacroiliac dysfunction, commonly manifests as pain and spasm in the longissimus. It is the muscle most often associated with poor performance, reluctance to engage, or resistance under saddle. Diagnostic approaches include clinical examination, ultrasound, and sometimes scintigraphy.
Reluctance to bend, bucking, or poor engagement under saddle can involve the longissimus. Have persistent back issues evaluated rather than assuming simple soreness. Balanced work and correct saddle fit help.
See the Longissimus Cervicis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model