Kissing spine, also known as dorsal spinous process impingement, is a debilitating condition affecting horses. It's characterized by the abnormal proximity or contact of the spinous processes of the vertebrae in the horse's back. These spinous processes are the bony projections that you can feel along the horse's back. In healthy horses, these processes are spaced apart, allowing for flexibility and movement. In horses with kissing spine, however, these processes are unnaturally close together, often overlapping or even touching, leading to significant discomfort and pain.
What Causes Kissing Spine in Horses?
The exact cause of kissing spine isn't fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:
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Conformation: Certain conformational issues, such as a swayback (lordosis) or a short, steep back, can predispose horses to kissing spine. These conformational abnormalities put extra stress on the spine.
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Trauma: Injuries to the back, such as falls or hard impacts, can damage the ligaments and soft tissues supporting the spine, leading to the spinous processes moving closer together.
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Genetics: Some evidence suggests that a genetic predisposition may play a role, though more research is needed to confirm this.
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Overuse and Strain: Repetitive strain on the back, often seen in high-performance athletic horses engaged in disciplines like dressage, jumping, or racing, can exacerbate the condition. This repeated stress can lead to inflammation and eventual malalignment of the spinous processes.
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Poor Saddle Fit: An improperly fitted saddle can create pressure points on the horse's back, contributing to muscle imbalances and ultimately, kissing spine.
How is Kissing Spine Diagnosed in Horses?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of methods:
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Physical Examination: A veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam, assessing the horse's posture, movement, and palpation of the spine for sensitivity and pain.
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Radiography (X-rays): X-rays are crucial for visualizing the spinous processes and assessing their proximity. They can reveal overlapping or touching processes, confirming the diagnosis.
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Ultrasound: Ultrasound can help to visualize the soft tissues surrounding the spine, assessing for inflammation and other abnormalities.
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Nuclear Scintigraphy (Bone Scan): A bone scan can identify areas of increased bone turnover, which is indicative of inflammation or injury.
What are the Symptoms of Kissing Spine in Horses?
Symptoms of kissing spine can vary greatly depending on the severity of the condition and the individual horse. Some horses may show subtle symptoms, while others experience significant pain and lameness. Common signs include:
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Back Pain: The horse may exhibit signs of discomfort when touched along its back.
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Swayback Posture: A pronounced swayback or lordosis may be present.
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Difficulty with Movement: The horse may have difficulty bending its back, backing up, or performing certain movements.
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Muscle Atrophy: Muscle wasting may be seen in the back muscles due to pain and disuse.
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Performance Issues: Athletic horses may experience decreased performance and difficulty executing maneuvers.
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Girthiness: Some horses with kissing spine may exhibit sensitivity to the girth.
How is Kissing Spine Treated in Horses?
Treatment for kissing spine depends on the severity of the condition and the horse's symptoms. Options may include:
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Conservative Management: This involves managing the pain and inflammation through rest, medication (such as NSAIDs), physiotherapy, and appropriate saddle fitting.
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Surgical Intervention: In severe cases where conservative management fails, surgery may be considered. Surgical procedures aim to separate the impinging spinous processes, alleviating pressure and improving comfort. However, surgery is not always successful, and recovery is a lengthy process.
What is the Prognosis for Horses with Kissing Spine?
The prognosis for horses with kissing spine varies. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve the outcome. However, the condition is often chronic and may require long-term management. In some cases, even with treatment, the horse may experience recurring symptoms or limitations in its performance.
Can Kissing Spine Be Prevented in Horses?
While complete prevention isn't always possible, the risk of kissing spine can be reduced by:
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Careful Breeding: Selecting horses with good conformation can minimize the risk.
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Appropriate Training and Conditioning: Gradually increasing the workload and avoiding overtraining are crucial.
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Regular Veterinary Care: Routine veterinary exams help detect any early signs of problems.
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Proper Saddle Fit: Ensuring the saddle fits correctly is essential to prevent pressure points and muscle imbalances.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for any concerns about your horse's health.
