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Kissing spines is a widespread and often underestimated spinal disease in horses, characterized by the rubbing or overlapping of the spinous processes of the vertebrae. This syndrome often causes back pain, restricted movement, and tension in the back muscles, which can have a negative impact on the horse's well-being and performance. Muscle tension or incorrect weight distribution are often the result of kissing spines. In this article, you will learn about the diagnostic procedures, causes, symptoms, and innovative therapeutic approaches for kissing spines syndrome in horses.

What is kissing spines in horses?

In kissing spines syndrome, the spinous processes of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae move so close together that they touch or even overlap. These spinous processes are bony protrusions located along the spine that play an important role in stabilizing the back. The close proximity causes painful friction and inflammation, which can significantly restrict the horse's mobility. The 12th and 18th thoracic vertebrae are particularly susceptible to developing symptoms, as this is where the saddle is placed and the strain is particularly high.

Kissing spines syndrome is considered one of the most common causes of back problems in horses. The condition primarily affects the area of the horse's back that is supported by the nuchal ligament and the underlying muscles. The nuchal ligament is an important ligament that runs from the neck to the sacrum and, together with the back muscles, ensures the upright position and stability of the spine. The close proximity of the spinous processes leads to friction, which not only causes pain but can also lead to inflammatory processes and ultimately to bone changes in the vertebral bodies. These changes can lead to significant restrictions in movement and severely impair the horse's well-being.

Causes and symptoms

The causes of kissing spines syndrome are varied and can be anatomical in origin or result from incorrect weight bearing.

Inappropriate riding, insufficient back muscles, anatomical predispositions, and overexertion often play a central role. Young horses that are ridden too early and too intensively, or horses with poorly fitting saddles, are particularly at risk. Genetic factors and congenital narrowing of the spinous processes can also contribute to the development of this condition.

Typical symptoms in horses with kissing spines include back pain, tension in the back muscles, muscle wasting (muscle atrophy), reluctance to mount or ride, lameness, and behavioral changes such as teeth grinding or resistance. Many horses also show difficulties when being groomed, as touching the back area is painful. Unrideability, sudden evasive movements, or rearing while riding are common signs of the syndrome. As the condition progresses, significant muscle wasting can occur in the area of the affected vertebrae, which further limits the horse's resilience and mobility.

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Modern diagnostic procedures

The accurate diagnosis of kissing spines in horses requires a combination of clinical examination and modern imaging techniques in order to precisely determine the severity of the disease and the affected areas. The following procedures are used for this purpose:

• X-rays: These are the standard method for visualizing the distances between the spinous processes and detecting changes such as overlaps or bony growths.
• Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): These high-resolution imaging techniques provide a detailed view of the spine, including soft tissues, inflammation, and bone changes that are not always visible on X-rays.
• Scintigraphy: This procedure is used to detect inflammatory processes in the spine and can help to locate the source of pain more precisely.
• Diagnostic anesthesia: Local anesthesia of the spinous processes can help narrow down the area of pain and confirm the diagnosis. If mobility or behavior improves after anesthesia, this is considered an indication of the affected region.

The diagnosis of kissing spines requires a precise focus on the horse as a whole, as symptoms such as restricted movement or behavioral changes can also indicate other diseases or problems. Therefore, a comprehensive examination by a veterinarian is essential to identify the exact cause of the back problems and enable individualized treatment.
Thanks tothe Altano Group's strong network, all affiliated equine clinics have access to state-of-the-art diagnostics such as CT, MRI, and scintigraphy. This allows the latest technology and pooled expertise to be used to accurately diagnose even complex spinal disorders and ensure the best possible care.

Innovative treatment options

The treatment of kissing spines aims to relieve pain, strengthen specific back muscles, and improve mobility in the long term. Modern therapeutic approaches include:

• Conservative therapy: This includes anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief, physical therapy, targeted training to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles, massages, and stretching exercises that relieve tension and promote mobility. Special attention is paid to promoting relaxation and correct stretching posture in order to minimize strain on the spinous processes.
• Osteopathy and chiropractic: These manual therapies help to release blockages in the musculoskeletal system, improve spinal function, and correct muscular imbalances.
  TheAltano Grouppromotes interdisciplinary collaboration between veterinarians, physical therapists, and osteopaths for the holistic treatment of spinal disorders.
• Minimally invasive surgery: In severe cases, when conservative measures are not sufficient, surgical removal or ablation of the affected spinous processes may be necessary. Modern techniques allow for procedures without general anesthesia and with less stress for the horse. The surgery aims to eliminate painful friction and improve mobility.
• Additional measures: The use of heat therapy, acupuncture, and targeted feeding with anti-inflammatory and muscle-strengthening supplements supports the healing process and promotes regeneration.

Treatment should always be tailored to the individual horse with kissing spines in order to achieve the best possible results. It is important to address the causes, such as incorrect weight distribution due to a poorly fitting saddle or inappropriate riding technique, in order to prevent the condition from progressing.

Daily life and quality of life for horses with kissing spines

Horses with kissing spines require particularly careful care in everyday life in order to maintain their quality of life and keep back pain to a minimum. A key element is species-appropriate husbandry: plenty of freedom of movement, for example through open stabling or regular grazing, supports natural mobility and helps to strengthen the muscles around the spine. This can specifically reduce tension and restricted movement caused by kissing spines syndrome.

Feeding also plays a crucial role for horses with kissing spines. A balanced diet rich in high-quality nutrients promotes muscle development and maintenance and supports spinal health. Roughage in particular should form the main component of the diet, while energy-rich concentrated feed should be adjusted individually. Supplementary feed containing anti-inflammatory ingredients can also help to reduce inflammation in the area of the spinous processes and promote regeneration.

Training horses with kissing spines requires a high degree of sensitivity and expertise. An individually tailored training program that specifically targets strengthening the back muscles and mobilizing the spine is essential. Regular breaks and varied exercises that avoid overload help to alleviate symptoms and maintain the horse's zest for life. It is important to always pay attention to the horse's body language and well-being in order to be able to react in good time to signs of pain or discomfort.

Another important aspect is equipment: a perfectly fitted saddle is essential for horses with kissing spines. A poorly fitting saddle can put additional strain on the spine and exacerbate symptoms. It is therefore advisable to have the saddle checked and adjusted regularly by a specialist to avoid pressure points and incorrect weight distribution.

Regular veterinary check-ups are just as important for horses with kissing spines as a well-thought-out training and husbandry concept. The veterinarian can not only monitor the horse's health, but also create individual therapy plans tailored to the horse's specific needs. This allows problems to be identified early on and treated in a targeted manner.
Are you worried that your horse may be suffering from kissing spines? AtAltano clinics, you will find experienced experts who will support you and your horse with modern diagnostics and a great deal of empathy.Find a clinic near you now.

For horse owners and riders, dealing with a horse with kissing spines means taking a close look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this spinal condition. This is the only way to provide the horse with optimal support and ensure its long-term quality of life. With a holistic approach that combines husbandry, feeding, training, equipment, and medical care, many problems can be alleviated and the horse's well-being can be improved in the long term.

Rehabilitation and training

After treatment, a customized and carefully structured training program is crucial for long-term success. Hand exercises, gymnastics, pole work, and riding in the correct stretched position promote muscle development and back health in the long term. It is particularly important to specifically build up the back muscles as antagonists to the abdominal muscles in order to stabilize the spine and reduce the strain on the spinous processes.

Stretching exercises and massages help to relieve existing tension and improve mobility. It is essential to pay attention to the signals from the horse's body in order to avoid overloading or renewed pain. Regular check-ups by the veterinarian and the saddler ensure that the horse receives optimal support and that no new incorrect strain occurs.
At theAltano Group, we place particular emphasis on long-term aftercare and rehabilitation – through close cooperation between all specialist areas and structured follow-up programs.

Conclusion

Kissing spines syndrome in horses is a complex and common spinal disorder that requires modern diagnostic and treatment methods. Thanks to innovative therapies, targeted training, and individual care, many horses with kissing spines can once again move and be ridden without pain. Early diagnosis, consideration of the causes, and holistic care are the key to long-term success and maintaining your horse's quality of life.

Is your horse showing signs of kissing spines?Here you will find expertswho can help.