Musculus spinalis cervicis
Part of the erector spinae group in the neck, running between spinous processes. Extends the cervical spine and maintains head elevation.
Origin: Spinous processes of the upper thoracic and lower cervical vertebrae
Insertion: Spinous processes of the upper cervical vertebrae
Action: Extends the cervical spine; maintains head and neck elevation
Innervation: Dorsal branches of cervical spinal nerves
Overuse from carrying a heavy head, rider error, or poorly fitting tack strains these dorsal cervical muscles.
Overuse from carrying a heavy head, rider error, or poorly fitting tack strains these dorsal cervical muscles. Signs include: Pain along the crest of the neck; muscle hardness over the upper neck; reluctance to lower the head; reduced neck range of motion.
See the Spinalis Cervicis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model