Musculus serratus ventralis cervicis
The serratus ventralis consists of cervical and thoracic portions that together form the muscular sling suspending the thorax between the forelimbs. The serratus ventralis cervicis originates from the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae C3-C7 and inserts on the cranial medial surface of the scapula. The serratus ventralis thoracis is a massive fan-shaped muscle that originates from the lateral surfaces of ribs 1-9 and inserts on the medial surface of the scapula. Their actions are to support the trunk between the forelimbs, draw the trunk forward, elevate the base of the neck, rotate the scapula during locomotion, and absorb concussion. They are innervated by the long thoracic nerve and ventral branches of cervical nerves (roughly C5-C7). Because horses have no clavicle, these muscles bear the full weight of the thorax.
Origin: Transverse processes of cervical vertebrae C3-C7
Insertion: Serrated (scalloped) attachment along the cranial medial surface of the scapula
Action: Supports the trunk between the forelimbs (primary sling muscle); draws the trunk forward relative to the forelimb; elevates the base of the neck
Innervation: Long thoracic nerve and ventral branches of cervical nerves (C5-C7)
Dysfunction or atrophy can contribute to reduced thoracic support and altered shoulder biomechanics. Relevant in evaluations of shoulder function and after trauma. They are critical for suspending the thorax.
Weakness of the serratus ventralis allows the thorax to drop between the forelimbs, creating a hollow behind the withers and affecting the entire posture of the horse. This is the core of the 'core' i
## Overview Serratus ventralis strain is injury to the muscle that helps suspend the trunk between the forelimbs. It occurs from jumping, hard landings, or work on deep footing. Signs include acute f
Persistent shoulder asymmetry or reduced thoracic support after trauma should be evaluated. Correct saddle fit and balanced work help maintain function.
Weakness of the serratus ventralis allows the thorax to drop between the forelimbs, creating a hollow behind the withers and affecting the entire posture of the horse. This is the core of the 'core' in equine rehabilitation. Signs include: Hollow behind the withers; withers appear more prominent than they should; horse falls on the forehand; heavy in the hand; difficulty engaging the hindquarters; stumbling on the forehand.; Low withers appearance; stumbling and tripping; heavy on the forehand; reduced shock absorption (jarring trot); forelimb lameness from increased concussive loading.; Stumbling; withers appear to sink between the shoulders; premature fatigue during work; poor shock absorption at the trot.
## Overview Serratus ventralis strain is injury to the muscle that helps suspend the trunk between the forelimbs. It occurs from jumping, hard landings, or work on deep footing. Signs include acute forelimb lameness or bilateral stiffness, pain where the neck meets the shoulder, reluctance to lower the head, and swelling at the scapular attachment. ## Causes Acute overload. ## Diagnosis Palpation and ultrasound. ## Treatment Rest and controlled rehabilitation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good. ## Prevention Progressive conditioning and appropriate surfaces. Signs include: acute forelimb lameness or bilateral stiffness; pain on palpation of the ventral neck/shoulder junction; reluctance to lower the head; swelling at the scapular attachment
Dysfunction or atrophy can contribute to reduced thoracic support and altered shoulder biomechanics. Relevant in evaluations of shoulder function and after trauma. They are critical for suspending the thorax.
Persistent shoulder asymmetry or reduced thoracic support after trauma should be evaluated. Correct saddle fit and balanced work help maintain function.
See the Serratus Ventralis Cervicis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model