The Equine Neck

replaced by a single synovial articulation and the atlantoaxial joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae is a pivot joint allowing substantial rotation critical for visual and vestibular health. To create this pivot joint the axis has a process called the dens or odontoid which projects upwards into the vertebral foramen of the atlas. The hinge joint between the occiptal bone of the skull and the atlas called the atlantooccipital joint or in most horse circles the poll allows for maximum flexion and extension. The remaining five vertebrae C3 to C7 are more typical with facet joints creating an articulation between the vertebrae a vertebral body and an intervertebral disc sandwiched in between and varying ranges of mobility depending on their form with the most mobile and susceptible vertebrae being C6 and C7. 
Meet a key player in the neck! This powerful ligament begins at the nuchal line of the occipital bone and extends to the lumbar vertebrae via a thick cord of tissue called the funicular portion with a sheetlike lamellar portion extending down to the second cervical vertebrae through the fifth cervical vertebrae in the past it also extended to C6 and C7. It plays an essential role in suspending the head and upper cervical vertebrae and limiting axial rotation when standing and in movement. 
Lowering or flexing the neck places the nuchal ligament under tension and induces separation of the spinous processes in the thoracic region and an elevation of the spine therefore creating a structure capable of supporting a riders weight and freeing up the longissimus dorsi muscle for creating momentum rather than protecting the spine. This is just one of the many benefits of allowing your horse to travel in a relaxed unrestrained and lowered neck position for portions of your ride or in a position of selfcarriage and relaxed collection. More extreme positions such as extreme neck flexion or extreme low neck could be potentially adverse to the horse and the
When you ride take a moment to watch the movement of your horses neck. Their oscillations in gait are directly linked to the movement patterns of their trunk and legs. In fact during movement the head and neck play a critical role in facilitating both balance and stability helping to hold the visual field in a horizontal plane and supporting healthy vestibular function. It is natural for the added weight of a rider
to cause head and neck elevation often referred to as hollow neck as horses attempt to find their balance. However this type of carriage over extended periods can increase the possibility of arthritis and soft tissue compensations such as an overdeveloped brachiocephalicus muscle at the base of the neck or tenderness in the back and indicates high stress levels in the horse. 
What Can You Do? 
To help promote a healthy happy neck remember to keep your rides interesting and varied only riding in contact for a maximum of ten minutes and altering the head and neck posture and routine frequently. For young horses vary their head and neck posture more often while they build strength and stamina. Listen to your horse by watching the ears feeling for a tight back both in and out of the saddle and observing any tension in the jaw or neck.