Kissing spines (overriding dorsal spinous processes) causes significant back pain in horses. Understanding surgical options and rehabilitation supports better recovery outcomes.
Kissing spines represents a significant source of chronic back pain that affects quality of life and performance capacity. Horses may show subtle behavioral changes including reluctance to work, sensitivity to grooming, bucking, and reduced impulsion before diagnosis. Early recognition and appropriate intervention — whether conservative management, injection therapy, or surgery — prevents prolonged suffering. Post-operative rehabilitation including controlled exercise, physiotherapy, and gradual return to ridden work is critical for successful outcomes and prevents recurrence.