Myofascial Kinetic Lines: Dorso-ventral thoracic tention

Myofascial Kinetic Lines - are a way of describing the functional connections and interactions of the muscles and fascia throughout the body. 

Equine fascia and kinetic lines are Important concepts for understanding how the horse moves and functions. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports the muscles, bones, organs, and nerves. Kinetic lines are the pathways of movement and force transmission that run through the fascia. 

Dotso-ventral thoracic tension (mediastinum) - the connection between the ventral surface of cranial thoracic vertebrae to sternum.

Tension of this connection can influence the mobility of the vertebrae from T5-T10. 

The structures located in Mediastinum and in close relation to the dorso-ventral connection:

• Eosephagus

• N. vagus

• Ductus thoracicus

• Aorta

  
  

Those structures also pass onto the abdomen trough the diaphragm.

Importantly, other vital structures which are embraced by the dorsoventral fascial connection are:

• N. phernicus

• Radix pulmonis

• Heart base + v. cava cran. and caud.

Symptoms - tension in dorso-ventral thoracic connection found in horses in which the thorax has been forced ventrally over a long period of time due to e.g.

• Ill fitting saddle

• Horses falling on the forehand

• Horses who are missing propulsion during riding

• The tension hinders the engagement of thoracic sling and thereby lifting of the thorax.

The same compensation is found in horses with pulmonary pathology or other thoracic complaints. This condition decreases a proper inspiratory movement of the thorax. 

By studying equine fascia and kinetic lines, we can learn how to improve the health, performance, and well-being of our horses. Some of the benefits of understanding equine fascia and kinetic lines include enhancing the horse's balance, coordination and flexibility, preventing or reducing the risk of injury and pain, improving the horse's posture and alignment.

Source: "Equine Myofascial Kinetic Lines" by Rikke M. Schulth, DVM, Tove Due, VDM, Vibbeke S. Elbrond, DVM, PhD