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The brachiocephalic muscle is a major muscle in the horse's shoulder girdle musculature, responsible for a wide variety of movements and thus having a significant influence on the animal's overall mobility. As part of the cranial group of shoulder muscles, it plays a central role in forward movement, head and neck flexion, and forelimb movement.
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Anatomy of the brachiocephalic muscle
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The brachiocephalic muscle consists of two distinct parts: the cleidobrachialis muscle and the cleidocephalicus muscle. These two muscles have different origins and functions, but together they constitute the function of the entire brachiocephalic muscle.
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- Cleidobrachialis muscle: This part of the muscle runs from the clavicle rudiment (a remnant of the collarbone) to the upper arm bone (humerus). It is primarily responsible for the forward movement of the forelimbs. /wp:list-item
- Cleidocephalic muscle: This muscle runs from the temporal bone (more precisely, from the mastoid process) to the shoulder region. Its function is to lower the neck and flex the head and neck laterally as needed. /wp:list-item
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Together, these muscles perform a variety of movements: not only do they contribute to forward movement, but they also help control and stabilize the horse's head and neck.
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The importance of the brachiocephalic muscle for forward movement
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An important aspect of the brachiocephalic muscle is its role in the horse's forward movement. Contraction of the cleidobrachialis muscle pulls the forelimb forward during the limb-hanging phase, which is essential for a horse's normal movement. With well-developed muscles, the horse can move fluidly and effectively at the walk, trot, and canter.
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The cleidocephalicus muscle provides additional support, as when contracted bilaterally, it helps lower the neck and stabilize the head. When contracted unilaterally, it pulls the head and neck to the side, which is especially important during turns and lateral movements.
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Tensions and problems in the area of the brachiocephalic muscle
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Tension in the brachiocephalic muscle is particularly common in horses suffering from improper training or unfavorable riding conditions. The most common causes of tension in this area include:
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- Incorrectly tied horses: If a horse is tied too tightly or incorrectly, the muscles in the neck and shoulder area, including the brachiocephalic muscle, can become inappropriately tense. This leads to limited mobility of the neck and forelimbs. /wp:list-item
- Riding with the back pushed away: If the horse is not in the right balance and pushes its back under the rider (e.g. by giving the wrong aids), the brachiocephalic muscle is put under greater strain and tends to become tense. /wp:list-item
- Lack of exercise: Inadequate exercise or the lack of proper training and stretching of the muscles can also lead to tension. /wp:list-item
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Affected horses often show symptoms such as an underdeveloped lower neck and limited mobility of the neck and forelimbs.
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Proper training of the horse is crucial to avoid tension in the brachiocephalic muscle area. A horse should learn to carry its neck and head in a natural posture without causing unnecessary tension in the muscles.
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Equally important is ensuring the equipment is properly fitted, especially when using bridles and bits. Equipment that is too tight or improperly fitted can place excessive strain on the muscles and cause harmful tension and damage in the long term.
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How to relieve tension and fascial adhesions in your horse's brachiocephalic muscle
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With the NeedleyRoll fascia and massage roller for horses, the entire brachiocephalic muscle can be worked evenly on both sides. Start with little to no pressure and work your way up gently. Pay close attention to your horse's reactions to find out what works for him. Stay mindful and try different pressure levels and movements to gently release tension and adhesions and relax the muscle.
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