Ligamentum nuchae (pars lamellaris)
The nuchal ligament is not a muscle but a critical elastic structure. It consists of two parts: the funicular part (a thick elastic cord running from the external occipital protuberance at the poll to the withers) and the lamellar part (paired sheet-like portions that extend from the funicular cord down to the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae, usually C2–C5, and sometimes C6 or C7). The funicular part continues caudally as the supraspinous ligament. Because it is elastic, it passively supports the weight of the head (roughly 40 kg or more) without constant muscular effort. It also stores and returns energy during head and neck oscillation at the walk and trot. This is one reason a horse can stand with its head up while resting.
Origin: Ventral surface of the funicular part of the nuchal ligament
Insertion: Spinous processes and arches of cervical vertebrae, usually C2 to C5 (sometimes C6 or C7)
Action: Stabilizes the cervical spine dorsally; distributes the weight of the head across multiple vertebrae
Innervation: None (ligament)
Nuchal bursitis (poll evil) can occur at the poll. Degeneration or mineralization of the lamellar portion can occur, especially around C2–C3. Displacement or injury of the funicular part can contribute to neck stiffness or abnormal head carriage. The structure is not innervated itself but is closely associated with bursae and surrounding soft tissues.
## Overview Lamellar damage from trauma refers to tearing of the supporting laminae or ligaments of the cervical spine, most often from the horse flipping over backward or sustaining poll trauma. It
Persistent reluctance to lower or flex the neck, or a hard swelling at the poll, should be evaluated. Balanced work and correct head carriage help maintain normal function of the nuchal ligament and associated muscles.
## Overview Lamellar damage from trauma refers to tearing of the supporting laminae or ligaments of the cervical spine, most often from the horse flipping over backward or sustaining poll trauma. It disrupts stability between the vertebrae and causes acute neck pain, swelling, and difficulty raising the head. Imaging is required to assess the extent of injury. ## Causes High-energy impact to the poll or neck, typically from rearing and falling backward. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs of neck pain and instability plus radiographs, and often computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate soft-tissue and bony damage. ## Treatment Strict stall rest, anti-inflammatories, and sometimes external support. Severe instability may require surgical stabilization, which is rarely performed. Prognosis depends on the degree of ligamentous disruption. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded. Mild injuries may heal with prolonged rest. Marked instability carries a poor outlook for athletic use and sometimes for survival. ## Prevention Safe handling to reduce rearing and falling risks. Signs include: acute neck pain and swelling after trauma; difficulty raising the head; cervical instability; requires imaging
Nuchal bursitis (poll evil) can occur at the poll. Degeneration or mineralization of the lamellar portion can occur, especially around C2–C3. Displacement or injury of the funicular part can contribute to neck stiffness or abnormal head carriage. The structure is not innervated itself but is closely associated with bursae and surrounding soft tissues.
Persistent reluctance to lower or flex the neck, or a hard swelling at the poll, should be evaluated. Balanced work and correct head carriage help maintain normal function of the nuchal ligament and associated muscles.
See the Nuchal Ligament (Lamellar Part) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model