Musculus procerus
The procerus is a small muscle that originates from the nasal bone and lateral nasal cartilage and inserts into the skin over the dorsal nose bridge. Its action is to wrinkle the skin of the nasal bridge. It is innervated by the dorsal buccal branch of the facial nerve (CN VII). It is part of the equine facial expression system. Activation is associated with discomfort and stress responses.
Origin: Nasal bone and lateral nasal cartilage
Insertion: Skin over the dorsal nose bridge
Action: Wrinkles the skin of the nasal bridge
Innervation: Dorsal buccal branch of facial nerve (CN VII)
Isolated clinical problems are uncommon. Relevant mainly as part of facial expression assessment and in evaluations of facial nerve function.
## Overview Noseband-related compression occurs when a noseband is fastened too tightly, compressing the muscles and tissues over the nasal bones. It causes rub marks, hair loss, skin thickening, fac
Persistent facial asymmetry or wrinkling associated with other signs of discomfort should be evaluated.
## Overview Noseband-related compression occurs when a noseband is fastened too tightly, compressing the muscles and tissues over the nasal bones. It causes rub marks, hair loss, skin thickening, facial tension, and resistance when the bridle is applied. Excessively tight nosebands can also restrict breathing and jaw movement. ## Causes Over-tightening of the noseband. ## Diagnosis Visual rubs or hair loss, palpation of skin thickening, and observation of resistance to bridling. ## Treatment Loosen or remove the noseband, allow skin to heal, and use a correctly fitted noseband that allows at least two fingers’ clearance. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent once pressure is removed. ## Prevention Proper noseband fit with adequate clearance. Signs include: rub marks or hair loss on the nose; skin thickening; facial tension when bridled; resistance to the noseband
Isolated clinical problems are uncommon. Relevant mainly as part of facial expression assessment and in evaluations of facial nerve function.
Persistent facial asymmetry or wrinkling associated with other signs of discomfort should be evaluated.
See the Procerus on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model