## Overview Facet joint arthritis at the C3 level involves the articular process joints between the second/third or third/fourth cervical vertebrae. While caudal joints are more commonly clinically significant, mid-cervical arthropathy can still produce neck stiffness, reduced lateral bending, and occasionally referred signs. Radiographic changes must be interpreted in light of clinical findings. ## Causes Repetitive motion, prior trauma, and conformational stress contribute to cartilage wear and osteophyte formation at this level. ## Diagnosis Clinical evaluation of neck mobility plus radiographs or ultrasound demonstrating osteophytes and joint remodeling. Intra-articular analgesia can confirm relevance. ## Treatment Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection, anti-inflammatory medication, and mobilization exercises are the primary treatments. ## Recovery and Prognosis Most horses improve with targeted therapy. The condition can progress or involve adjacent levels over time. ## Prevention No specific measures beyond general neck-health management.
reduced lateral bending of the mid-neck; stiffness; occasional forelimb gait change; radiographic osteophytes at C3 articulations
## Overview Facet joint arthritis at the C3 level involves the articular process joints between the second/third or third/fourth cervical vertebrae. While caudal joints are more commonly clinically significant, mid-cervical arthropathy can still produce neck stiffness, reduced lateral bending, and occasionally referred signs. Radiographic changes must be interpreted in light of clinical findings. ## Causes Repetitive motion, prior trauma, and conformational stress contribute to cartilage wear and osteophyte formation at this level. ## Diagnosis Clinical evaluation of neck mobility plus radiographs or ultrasound demonstrating osteophytes and joint remodeling. Intra-articular analgesia can confirm relevance. ## Treatment Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection, anti-inflammatory medication, and mobilization exercises are the primary treatments. ## Recovery and Prognosis Most horses improve with targeted therapy. The condition can progress or involve adjacent levels over time. ## Prevention No specific measures beyond general neck-health management.
reduced lateral bending of the mid-neck; stiffness; occasional forelimb gait change; radiographic osteophytes at C3 articulations