Equine Anatomy - Rectus Capitis

Muscles being discussed: Rectus capitis muscles

Location: The rectus capitis muscles are located at the horses poll. They originate from atlas or axis (vertebra 1 and 2) and insert into the occipital bone.

Function: Allows the head to flex at the poll both laterally and vertically.

Symptoms of tension:

· Reluctance to bend/flex at the poll

· Tightness in the topline

· Heavy/leaning on the reins (one or both sides)

· Refusing jumps

· Aversion to being touched on the poll (head-shy)

· Shortened strides

Causes of tension:

· Repetitive flexion at the poll (Horses in disciplines such as Dressage, Reining, English Performance, and Western Performance often have tension at the poll)

· Misuse/overuse of training aids such as martingales or draw reins

· Uneven reins

· Dental issues

· A lot of circle work or excessive lunging.

How massage can help: Massage is a great way to address tension at the poll. By addressing knots and breaking up adhesions in the muscle tissue, massage can help loosen up tense muscle fibers allowing your horse to have better flexion and movement.

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