## Overview Facet arthritis at the C5 level involves the articular process joints of the fifth cervical vertebra, a region frequently affected in clinical cervical osteoarthritis. Osteophytes here can produce neck pain, stiffness, and forelimb lameness via nerve-root irritation. It is one of the more common sites for therapeutic injection. ## Causes Repetitive biomechanical stress in athletic horses is the predominant cause. Conformational and traumatic factors contribute. ## Diagnosis Combination of clinical signs, imaging (radiographs and ultrasound), and response to diagnostic analgesia of the facet joint. ## Treatment Ultrasound-guided intra-articular corticosteroids can give temporary relief of neck pain and stiffness. Adjunctive anti-inflammatories and physical therapy complete the program. ## Recovery and Prognosis Relief after injection may be temporary. Progressive disease may require ongoing management. ## Prevention No proven specific prevention; maintain overall neck mobility and address early stiffness.
caudal neck stiffness; resistance to poll flexion or lateral bend; forelimb lameness unresponsive to distal blocks; radiographic changes at C5-C6
## Overview Facet arthritis at the C5 level involves the articular process joints of the fifth cervical vertebra, a region frequently affected in clinical cervical osteoarthritis. Osteophytes here can produce neck pain, stiffness, and forelimb lameness via nerve-root irritation. It is one of the more common sites for therapeutic injection. ## Causes Repetitive biomechanical stress in athletic horses is the predominant cause. Conformational and traumatic factors contribute. ## Diagnosis Combination of clinical signs, imaging (radiographs and ultrasound), and response to diagnostic analgesia of the facet joint. ## Treatment Ultrasound-guided intra-articular corticosteroids can give temporary relief of neck pain and stiffness. Adjunctive anti-inflammatories and physical therapy complete the program. ## Recovery and Prognosis Relief after injection may be temporary. Progressive disease may require ongoing management. ## Prevention No proven specific prevention; maintain overall neck mobility and address early stiffness.
caudal neck stiffness; resistance to poll flexion or lateral bend; forelimb lameness unresponsive to distal blocks; radiographic changes at C5-C6