Lesions of the neck resulting in lameness or poor performance

There are some clinical signs that are directly referable to equine neck lesions such as pain, abnormal neck posture, stiffness or patchy sweating. Clinical examination, exclusion of other causes of lameness or poor performance and accurate interpretation of diagnostic imaging are essential for defining an accurate diagnosis.

This review describes uncommon cases of neck lesions. A few highlighted cases we call out.

Osteoarthritis of the cervical articular process joints can result in nerve root compression with local or referred pain and possibly lameness and patchy sweating. Resulting neurogenic muscle atrophy may alter forelimb support and change functional gait. Ataxia and neck stiffness can occur.

Neck stiffness or forelimb lameness has been seen with lesions between the C4 and T1. Patterns of muscle atrophy and shoulder regions varied. They accord with forelimb lameness but no ataxia. Nerve root impingement of the caudal neck may cause radicular or referred pain and account for forelimb lameness. Neck pain itself can also cause forelimb lameness.

In the caudal cervical region osteoarthritis may result in associated enlargement of the joint capsule(s), the development of a synovial hernia and subsequent pressure on the spinal cord. Obvious ataxia may not be seen, but the horse can stumble or to knuckle behind, or lack of hindlimb impulsion.

In case of a lameness in the distal part of the limb resentment of firm palpation on the m. brachiocephalicus is mainly secondary. Primary pain in the muscle results in; abnormal lifting of the neck as the limb advanced and a shortened cranial phase of the stride ipsilateral to the sore muscle.

> Dyson, Vet Clin Equine 27 (2011), 417-437. All rights reserved to 2013 Elsevier B.V. Click here for the Pubmed summary