Musculus rectus capitis lateralis
A small deep muscle at the atlanto-occipital joint responsible for lateral tilting of the head.
Origin: Ventral surface of the transverse process of the atlas
Insertion: Jugular process of the occipital bone
Action: Laterally tilts the head; stabilizes the atlanto-occipital joint
Innervation: Ventral branch of C1
A persistent head tilt in the horse may indicate dysfunction or pain involving the rectus capitis lateralis and other suboccipital muscles.
A persistent head tilt in the horse may indicate dysfunction or pain involving the rectus capitis lateralis and other suboccipital muscles. Signs include: Consistent head tilt to one side; ear held lower on one side; difficulty with one rein; may indicate vestibular disease if severe.
See the Rectus Capitis Lateralis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model