## Overview Cervical muscle spasm is involuntary, sustained contraction of neck muscles, most often the superficial brachiocephalicus, splenius, or trapezius groups, or the deeper stabilizers. It produces stiffness, asymmetric posture, and pain, and frequently serves as a protective response to underlying joint, nerve, or soft-tissue pathology. ## Causes Acute strain, facet osteoarthritis, nerve-root irritation, compensatory overload from forelimb lameness, and psychological tension can all trigger spasm. Cold weather or inadequate warm-up may predispose. ## Diagnosis Palpation identifies taut bands, heat, and pain. Observation shows restricted motion or abnormal head carriage. Ruling out primary neurologic disease or fracture is important when onset is acute. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatory medication, heat or manual therapy, and gradual mobilization relieve acute spasm. Addressing the underlying driver (joint injection, dental correction, saddle fit) prevents recurrence. ## Recovery and Prognosis Most spasms resolve with appropriate care. Chronic or recurrent spasm indicates an unresolved primary problem. ## Prevention Proper warm-up, balanced training, and prompt treatment of neck or forelimb discomfort reduce episodes.
taut, painful neck muscles; restricted range of motion; asymmetric head or neck posture; resistance to bending
## Overview Cervical muscle spasm is involuntary, sustained contraction of neck muscles, most often the superficial brachiocephalicus, splenius, or trapezius groups, or the deeper stabilizers. It produces stiffness, asymmetric posture, and pain, and frequently serves as a protective response to underlying joint, nerve, or soft-tissue pathology. ## Causes Acute strain, facet osteoarthritis, nerve-root irritation, compensatory overload from forelimb lameness, and psychological tension can all trigger spasm. Cold weather or inadequate warm-up may predispose. ## Diagnosis Palpation identifies taut bands, heat, and pain. Observation shows restricted motion or abnormal head carriage. Ruling out primary neurologic disease or fracture is important when onset is acute. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatory medication, heat or manual therapy, and gradual mobilization relieve acute spasm. Addressing the underlying driver (joint injection, dental correction, saddle fit) prevents recurrence. ## Recovery and Prognosis Most spasms resolve with appropriate care. Chronic or recurrent spasm indicates an unresolved primary problem. ## Prevention Proper warm-up, balanced training, and prompt treatment of neck or forelimb discomfort reduce episodes.
taut, painful neck muscles; restricted range of motion; asymmetric head or neck posture; resistance to bending