Musculus sacrocaudalis ventralis lateralis
The sacrocaudalis muscles are the primary muscles controlling the equine tail. The sacrocaudalis dorsalis lateralis elevates and laterally deviates the tail. The sacrocaudalis dorsalis medialis elevates the tail dorsally (lifts it straight up). The sacrocaudalis ventralis lateralis depresses the tail and assists in lateral movement. The sacrocaudalis ventralis medialis depresses the tail ventrally (pulls it down). They originate from the sacral and caudal vertebrae and insert on the corresponding caudal vertebrae. All are innervated by the caudal (coccygeal) spinal nerves.
Origin: Transverse processes of caudal vertebrae
Insertion: Ventrolateral caudal vertebrae
Action: Depresses and laterally deviates the tail
Innervation: Caudal (coccygeal) spinal nerves
Isolated injury is uncommon. Tail tone and movement are assessed in neurologic examinations. Trauma to the tail or sacrocaudal region can affect these muscles and associated nerves. Relevant in evaluations of cauda equina or sacral nerve dysfunction.
## Overview Persistent tail clamping, with the tail held tightly against the perineum, is a behavioral indicator of pain, fear, or discomfort. It is often combined with other pain behaviors and can s
Persistent abnormal tail carriage, weakness, or asymmetry after trauma should be evaluated. Protect the tail from injury during transport and handling.
## Overview Persistent tail clamping, with the tail held tightly against the perineum, is a behavioral indicator of pain, fear, or discomfort. It is often combined with other pain behaviors and can signal hindquarter, back, or reproductive-tract pain. Mares with ovarian pain commonly clamp the tail. ## What It Indicates Pain or fear, particularly in the hindquarters, back, or reproductive tract. ## Diagnosis Observation in context with other clinical signs and a physical examination. ## Treatment Address the underlying source of pain or fear. ## Recovery and Prognosis Resolves when the cause is treated. ## Prevention Prompt pain management. Signs include: tail held tightly clamped against the perineum; combined with other pain behaviors; may indicate hindquarter, back, or reproductive pain; common in mares with ovarian pain
Isolated injury is uncommon. Tail tone and movement are assessed in neurologic examinations. Trauma to the tail or sacrocaudal region can affect these muscles and associated nerves. Relevant in evaluations of cauda equina or sacral nerve dysfunction.
Persistent abnormal tail carriage, weakness, or asymmetry after trauma should be evaluated. Protect the tail from injury during transport and handling.
See the Sacrocaudalis Ventralis Lateralis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model