Musculus spinalis cervicis
The spinalis muscles are part of the erector spinae group. The spinalis cervicis originates from the spinous processes of the upper thoracic and lower cervical vertebrae and inserts on the spinous processes of the upper cervical vertebrae. Its actions are to extend the cervical spine and maintain head and neck elevation. The spinalis dorsi is the most medial erector spinae member, running between adjacent spinous processes. It originates from the spinous processes of lumbar and caudal thoracic vertebrae and inserts on the spinous processes of cranial thoracic vertebrae. It is intimately associated with the supraspinous ligament and is particularly important in the kissing spines region. Both are innervated by dorsal branches of the relevant spinal nerves.
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
Relevant in evaluations of kissing spines and neck function. Atrophy or dysfunction can contribute to reduced spinal extension and poor topline. Diagnosis uses clinical examination and imaging.
## Overview Strain of the dorsal cervical muscles (splenius, semispinalis, trapezius) produces pain along the crest, muscle hardness, and reluctance to lower or bend the neck. It commonly results fro
Persistent back pain, reduced spinal flexibility, or loss of topline should be evaluated. Balanced work and correct saddle fit help maintain function.
## Overview Strain of the dorsal cervical muscles (splenius, semispinalis, trapezius) produces pain along the crest, muscle hardness, and reluctance to lower or bend the neck. It commonly results from overuse, carrying a heavy head, rider error, or poorly fitting tack. ## Causes Acute overload or repetitive strain. ## Diagnosis Palpation reveals taut, painful bands. Range-of-motion testing shows restriction. Other causes of neck pain are excluded. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, heat or manual therapy once acute inflammation settles, and correction of tack or riding factors. Gradual return to work. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most uncomplicated strains. ## Prevention Proper warm-up, balanced training, and correct saddle and bridle fit. Signs include: pain along the crest of the neck; muscle hardness; reluctance to lower the head; reduced neck range of motion
Relevant in evaluations of kissing spines and neck function. Atrophy or dysfunction can contribute to reduced spinal extension and poor topline. Diagnosis uses clinical examination and imaging.
Persistent back pain, reduced spinal flexibility, or loss of topline should be evaluated. Balanced work and correct saddle fit help maintain function.
See the Spinalis Cervicis on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model