Overriding dorsal spinous processes, known as kissing spine, causes back pain that affects many horses. Recognition, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are essential for the welfare of affected horses.
Kissing spine causes chronic back pain that significantly impairs the welfare and willingness to work of affected horses. The challenge of diagnosis is compounded by the fact that radiographic findings do not always correlate with clinical signs, requiring integration of imaging with thorough clinical assessment and response to treatment trials. Horses with kissing spine may show subtle resistance and discomfort that is misinterpreted as poor attitude or training problems, leading to inappropriate responses that worsen welfare. Welfare-centred management addresses the underlying pain through appropriate treatment, saddle fit correction, targeted physiotherapy, and gradual rehabilitation. Decisions about whether treated horses can continue in their previous disciplines or require career changes should be guided by honest assessment of pain management and quality of life.