Musculus longus capitis
The longus colli is the deepest ventral neck muscle, lying directly on the cervical vertebrae. It originates from the bodies and transverse processes of the first several thoracic vertebrae and inserts on the ventral surfaces of the cervical vertebral bodies and the ventral tubercle of the atlas. The longus capitis is more cranial, originating from the transverse processes of C3–C6 and inserting on the basisphenoid of the skull. Together they flex the cervical spine, stabilize the neck, and facilitate the telescoping gesture during proper engagement. They are innervated by the ventral branches of the cervical spinal nerves.
Origin: Transverse processes of C3-C6
Insertion: Basisphenoid bone of the skull
Action: Flexes the atlanto-occipital joint; ventroflexes the upper cervical spine
Innervation: Ventral branches of cervical spinal nerves (C2-C4)
Rarely a primary clinical problem. Dysfunction can occur with neck trauma or as part of broader cervical issues. Relevant in evaluations of neck flexibility and collection.
## Overview Weakness of the deep cervical flexor muscles (longus capitis and longus colli) impairs the horse’s ability to flex at the poll and maintain self-carriage. The horse may rely on rein conta
Persistent neck stiffness or reluctance to flex at the poll should be evaluated. These deep muscles are part of the overall neck stabilization system.
## Overview Weakness of the deep cervical flexor muscles (longus capitis and longus colli) impairs the horse’s ability to flex at the poll and maintain self-carriage. The horse may rely on rein contact, go behind the vertical, or show tongue evasion. It is often a training or conditioning issue rather than a primary disease. ## Causes Insufficient gymnastic training, pain inhibition from elsewhere, or prolonged poor posture. ## Diagnosis Clinical observation of head and neck carriage under saddle and response to correctly executed gymnastic exercises. ## Treatment Progressive dressage-based or in-hand exercises that encourage true poll flexion and engagement of the deep flexors, combined with treatment of any concurrent pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with consistent, correct training over months. ## Prevention Balanced training that develops self-carriage rather than relying on rein pressure. Signs include: inability to maintain poll flexion without strong rein contact; tongue over the bit; behind the vertical; improvement with correct gymnastic work
Rarely a primary clinical problem. Dysfunction can occur with neck trauma or as part of broader cervical issues. Relevant in evaluations of neck flexibility and collection.
Persistent neck stiffness or reluctance to flex at the poll should be evaluated. These deep muscles are part of the overall neck stabilization system.
See the Longus Capitis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model