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 several thoracic vertebrae
Insertion: Articular and transverse processes of cervical vertebrae C3-C7
Action: Extends and laterally flexes the cervical spine
Innervation: Dorsal branches of cervical 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 Pain arising from the cervicothoracic junction (C7-T1 region) produces lower-neck discomfort, reluctance to lower the head fully, and sometimes referred signs into the shoulder or forelim
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 Pain arising from the cervicothoracic junction (C7-T1 region) produces lower-neck discomfort, reluctance to lower the head fully, and sometimes referred signs into the shoulder or forelimb. It may result from osteoarthritis, muscle strain, or ligament injury at this transitional zone. ## Causes Repetitive loading, trauma, or compensatory overload. ## Diagnosis Palpation, motion testing, and imaging. Diagnostic analgesia can help localize the source. ## Treatment Anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, local injection when a joint is identified, and workload modification. ## Recovery and Prognosis Generally good with appropriate management. ## Prevention Maintain balanced posture and address early stiffness. Signs include: pain at the base of the neck; reluctance to lower the head; possible shoulder or forelimb referral; stiffness
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 (Neck) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model