Musculus rectus capitis ventralis
The rectus capitis ventralis is a short deep muscle that originates from the ventral arch of the atlas (C1) and inserts on the basilar part of the occipital bone. Its primary action is to flex the atlanto-occipital joint (nodding the head forward). It is innervated by the ventral branch of C1. It is part of the suboccipital group responsible for fine head positioning.
Origin: Ventral arch of the atlas (C1)
Insertion: Basilar part of the occipital bone
Action: Flexes the atlanto-occipital joint (nods the head forward)
Innervation: Ventral branch of C1
Isolated injury is uncommon. Relevant in evaluations of poll flexion and head carriage after trauma.
## Overview Poll dysfunction is stiffness or pain at the junction of the head and neck, often involving the suboccipital muscles. Horses resist poll flexion, have uneven rein contact, and may head-sh
Difficulty flexing the poll or persistent head carriage issues after trauma should be evaluated.
## Overview Poll dysfunction is stiffness or pain at the junction of the head and neck, often involving the suboccipital muscles. Horses resist poll flexion, have uneven rein contact, and may head-shake. Dental problems, temporomandibular joint pain, or bit issues frequently contribute. ## Causes Muscle tension, dental disease, temporomandibular joint pain, or training-related overflexion. ## Diagnosis Palpation, dental examination, and observation under saddle. ## Treatment Address dental or temporomandibular issues, physiotherapy, and modification of training. Anti-inflammatories for acute pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good when the underlying cause is corrected. ## Prevention Regular dental care and balanced training. Signs include: difficulty flexing at the poll; resistance to the bit; head shaking; uneven rein contact
Isolated injury is uncommon. Relevant in evaluations of poll flexion and head carriage after trauma.
Difficulty flexing the poll or persistent head carriage issues after trauma should be evaluated.
See the Rectus Capitis Ventralis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model