Kissing Spines Prevention in Horses

How overriding dorsal spinous processes cause chronic back pain in horses and what management and treatment approaches improve welfare.

Key Facts

Kissing spines — overriding dorsal spinous processes — cause chronic back pain in ridden horses
The condition is more prevalent in breeds ridden in collected work including warmbloods and thoroughbreds
Poor saddle fit, rider imbalance, and weak core musculature are risk factors for kissing spines
Surgical treatment and mesotherapy provide pain relief but address symptoms rather than causes
Physiotherapy, core strengthening exercises, and correct saddle fit reduce recurrence after treatment

Welfare Considerations

Kissing spines is a significant welfare condition causing chronic back pain that affects performance, training tolerance, and quality of life. Horses with kissing spines often show subtle behavioral signs of pain including reluctance to work, sensitivity to grooming on the back, and resistance to collection. These behaviors are frequently misattributed to disobedience rather than pain. Welfare-centered management addresses underlying causes including saddle fit, rider balance, and core weakness alongside medical treatment, improving long-term outcomes compared to symptomatic treatment alone.

What You Can Do

Have your horse back assessed by a veterinarian if they show resistance, back sensitivity, or performance changes
Ensure saddle fit is checked regularly by a qualified saddle fitter
Incorporate core strengthening exercises including pole work and hill work in your schooling program
Seek physiotherapy input alongside veterinary treatment for horses diagnosed with kissing spines