Acute instability of the nuchal ligament following cervical neuromuscular dysfunction in a dressage horse

Abstract

A ten-year-old Warmblood dressage gelding was presented with acute instability of the nuchal ligament after paddock turnout. Based on the clinical signs, orthopedic and neurologic examination, diagnostic imaging and electromyography, cervical neuromuscular dysfunction of the M. obliquus capitis caudalis on the right side of the neck was diagnosed. Conservative treatment including steroidal anti-inflammatory medication in combination with oral supplementation with vitamin B1 and box rest resulted in complete recovery of the horse within six months.