The Biomechanics of the Neck and Back: Why Neck Freedom Shapes the Whole Horse

Your horse’s neck does far more than hold the head. It plays a central role in how the back moves, how the forelimbs swing, and how balanced and comfortable each stride feels. From a biomechanics perspective, the neck is a key driver of whole-body function.

At Kinetic Equine Medicine, we find that restrictions in the neck are frequently linked to back pain, altered posture, and performance decline—often without obvious limb lameness.

How the Neck Influences Movement

Neck–Shoulder–Forelimb Connections

The cervical spine connects to powerful muscles such as the brachiocephalicus, trapezius, and the thoracic sling. These structures don’t just move the neck—they help stabilize the shoulder and guide the swing of the forelimbs. When neck motion is free, the forelimbs can move forward with greater ease and coordination.

Ligamentous Support and Back Lift

When the neck lowers and extends naturally, the nuchal ligament stretches and transfers tension to the supraspinous ligament along the topline. This mechanism helps lift the back, supporting swing, engagement, and elastic movement through the thoracolumbar spine.

Freedom through the neck supports lift through the back—when the neck moves well, the whole horse moves better.

What Happens When the Neck Is Restricted

If the neck cannot move freely, the back loses its ability to rise. Common downstream effects include:

• A hollow or braced topline

• Shortened stride length

• Increased loading on the forehand

Over time, these patterns can contribute to discomfort, compensatory movement, and reduced performance.

What the Research Shows

Research consistently demonstrates the neck–back connection:

• Up to 72% of horses with cervical restrictions also show back pain or abnormal posture

• Horses with cervical dysfunction have significantly reduced stride length and thoracolumbar flexion compared to sound horses

These findings reinforce that neck function cannot be separated from overall soundness.

Where Things Go Wrong: Hyperflexion

Problems arise when the head and neck are forced into hyperflexion (often referred to as rollkur). This position disrupts the natural biomechanics described above. Studies show hyperflexion:

• Shortens stride length and compromises balance

• Increases stress markers, including conflict behaviors, elevated heart rate, and higher cortisol levels

• Compresses the upper airway, reducing airflow and contributing to “air hunger”

• Places excessive strain on the nuchal ligament, cervical joints, and surrounding soft tissues, increasing the risk of bursitis and long-term musculoskeletal injury

A systematic review of 58 studies found that 75% reported negative welfare impacts associated with hyperflexion, with any minor performance effects outweighed by the risks.

Unlocking freedom in the neck helps unlock the entire horse. Encouraging natural head and neck lowering supports back lift, engagement, and sound biomechanics. Forcing the neck into hyperflexion does not improve performance—it compromises comfort, health, and welfare.