## Overview Deep cervical instability refers to reduced segmental stability in the neck, often linked to weakness or atrophy of the longus colli and multifidus muscles. It can contribute to poor posture, inconsistent head carriage, and, in more severe cases, may be associated with dynamic components of cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy. ## Causes Muscle weakness, joint pathology, or developmental factors affecting vertebral stability. ## Diagnosis Clinical palpation of instability or abnormal motion, neurologic examination, and imaging (radiographs, myelography, or computed tomography) when myelopathy is suspected. ## Treatment Rehabilitation to strengthen deep stabilizers, plus medical or surgical management if significant stenosis or ataxia is present. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Mild instability may improve with therapy; cases with neurologic deficits have a more guarded outlook. ## Prevention Early attention to neck strength and posture in young horses.
inconsistent head carriage; palpable instability; difficulty maintaining poll flexion; possible ataxia if myelopathy is present
## Overview Deep cervical instability refers to reduced segmental stability in the neck, often linked to weakness or atrophy of the longus colli and multifidus muscles. It can contribute to poor posture, inconsistent head carriage, and, in more severe cases, may be associated with dynamic components of cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy. ## Causes Muscle weakness, joint pathology, or developmental factors affecting vertebral stability. ## Diagnosis Clinical palpation of instability or abnormal motion, neurologic examination, and imaging (radiographs, myelography, or computed tomography) when myelopathy is suspected. ## Treatment Rehabilitation to strengthen deep stabilizers, plus medical or surgical management if significant stenosis or ataxia is present. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Mild instability may improve with therapy; cases with neurologic deficits have a more guarded outlook. ## Prevention Early attention to neck strength and posture in young horses.
inconsistent head carriage; palpable instability; difficulty maintaining poll flexion; possible ataxia if myelopathy is present