Cartilago scapulae
The scapula (shoulder blade) is a large, flat, roughly triangular bone that lies against the thoracic wall. It does not form a true bony joint with the trunk but is attached solely by muscles (synsarcosis or the thoracic sling). The spine of the scapula runs along its lateral surface and divides it into the supraspinous and infraspinous fossae. The glenoid cavity at the distal end articulates with the humerus to form the shoulder joint. In the horse the scapula is oriented cranioventrally and is critical for forelimb extension and weight bearing. The angle of the scapula affects stride length. The scapular cartilage is a crescent-shaped cartilaginous extension at the dorsal border of the scapula. It enlarges the area for muscle attachment and acts as a shock absorber during locomotion. The cartilage gradually ossifies with age, becoming more brittle and less effective as a shock absorber in older horses.
Scapular fractures are uncommon but serious. The thoracic sling is critical for suspending the thorax between the forelimbs. Scapular cartilage ossification is a normal age-related change. Relevant in evaluations of shoulder function and after trauma.
## Overview Ossification with aging refers to the normal or incidental mineralization of soft tissues or cartilage that occurs as horses get older. Examples include mineralization in ligaments or pro
## Overview Fractures of the dorsal spinous processes in the withers region are uncommon and usually result from direct trauma (falling over backward or impact). They produce acute pain, swelling, an
Sudden severe lameness or swelling over the shoulder after trauma should be evaluated immediately. Correct saddle fit helps protect the region.
## Overview Ossification with aging refers to the normal or incidental mineralization of soft tissues or cartilage that occurs as horses get older. Examples include mineralization in ligaments or progressive ossification of certain cartilaginous structures. Many findings are asymptomatic and discovered on radiographs taken for other reasons. ## Causes Age-related change. ## Diagnosis Radiographic mineralization in an older horse without corresponding clinical signs. ## Treatment None if asymptomatic. Treat only if the finding is linked to pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Not applicable for incidental findings. ## Prevention None. Signs include: radiographic mineralization in an older horse; often incidental and without clinical signs
## Overview Fractures of the dorsal spinous processes in the withers region are uncommon and usually result from direct trauma (falling over backward or impact). They produce acute pain, swelling, and reluctance to move the neck or accept a saddle. ## Causes Direct trauma. ## Diagnosis Radiographs of the withers. Clinical signs of focal pain after trauma. ## Treatment Most are managed conservatively with rest and anti-inflammatories. Severely displaced or unstable fragments may be removed surgically. ## Recovery and Prognosis Generally good. Residual prominence or sensitivity can affect saddle fit. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance. Signs include: acute pain and swelling over the withers after trauma; reluctance to lower the head or be saddled; radiographic fracture
Scapular fractures are uncommon but serious. The thoracic sling is critical for suspending the thorax between the forelimbs. Scapular cartilage ossification is a normal age-related change. Relevant in evaluations of shoulder function and after trauma.
Sudden severe lameness or swelling over the shoulder after trauma should be evaluated immediately. Correct saddle fit helps protect the region.
See the Scapular Cartilage (Left) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model