Musculus obliquus capitis caudalis
The obliquus capitis caudalis is the larger of the two oblique muscles in the atlas-axis region. It originates from the spinous process of the axis (C2) and inserts on the wing of the atlas (C1). Its primary action is to rotate the atlas on the axis, which rotates the head. It is innervated by the dorsal branch of C2. It works with the obliquus capitis cranialis and other suboccipital muscles for fine control of head position.
Origin: Spinous process of the axis (C2)
Insertion: Wing of the atlas (C1)
Action: Rotates the atlas on the axis (head rotation)
Innervation: Dorsal branch of C2
Isolated injury is uncommon. Dysfunction can contribute to reduced head rotation or neck stiffness after trauma. Relevant in evaluations of upper cervical mobility.
## Overview C1-C2 rotational restriction is reduced axial rotation at the atlantoaxial joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae. This joint accounts for the majority of the horse’s abili
Reluctance to turn the head to one side after trauma or with chronic neck stiffness should be evaluated.
## Overview C1-C2 rotational restriction is reduced axial rotation at the atlantoaxial joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae. This joint accounts for the majority of the horse’s ability to rotate the head (“shake the head no”). Restriction may result from muscle spasm, osteoarthritis, previous trauma, or true mechanical limitation. It commonly contributes to resistance to lateral bending, asymmetric gaits, or performance issues under saddle. ## Causes Muscle hypertonicity in the poll region, osteoarthritis of the atlantoaxial facets, compensatory guarding from lower cervical or forelimb pain, and prior subluxation or ligament injury are typical. Congenital malformations are uncommon but can produce fixed restriction. ## Diagnosis Motion palpation reveals asymmetry or reduced rotational range. Clinical correlation with head carriage and ridden evaluation is essential. Radiographs or advanced imaging assess for osteoarthritis or malalignment when neurologic signs or trauma history are present. ## Treatment Manual therapies, anti-inflammatory medication, and targeted joint treatment when osteoarthritis is confirmed form the main approach. Rehabilitation exercises restore mobility. Structural instability is rare but may require surgical stabilization. ## Recovery and Prognosis Most functional restrictions improve with appropriate therapy. Advanced degenerative change or true instability carries a more guarded outlook for high-level work. ## Prevention Balanced training, attention to dental and bit issues, and early treatment of neck discomfort help maintain normal motion. Signs include: resistance to lateral head movement; asymmetric neck posture; reduced performance in lateral work; pain on palpation of the atlas-axis region
Isolated injury is uncommon. Dysfunction can contribute to reduced head rotation or neck stiffness after trauma. Relevant in evaluations of upper cervical mobility.
Reluctance to turn the head to one side after trauma or with chronic neck stiffness should be evaluated.
See the Obliquus Capitis Caudalis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model