Overriding dorsal spinous processes, known as kissing spines, is a painful back condition in horses that often goes undiagnosed, causing chronic discomfort and behavioral issues.
Horses with undiagnosed kissing spines perform under pain, often receiving punishment for 'bad behavior' that is actually pain-avoidance. The chronic nature of this condition means affected horses may spend years in discomfort before receiving appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Even after diagnosis, horses are frequently returned to full work too quickly. The welfare implications are significant given the millions of horses in working use worldwide and the high prevalence of the condition.