Kissing spines in horses is an annoying back problem. Yet many horses suffer from it. Fortunately, there are things you can do to alleviate and treat this condition. Wondering what you can do for your horse with kissing spines? Then read on quickly.

What is kissing spines?

Kissing spines in horses is a common back problem. The spinous processes, the bone structures on the vertebrae, touch or get too close together. This often causes pain and difficulty moving.

What is the cause of kissing spines?

The causes of this back condition vary widely. Some horses are naturally predisposed to it. In other horses, it can come from overuse, weak back muscles or even improper riding.

What are the symptoms of kissing spines in horses?

This condition is sometimes difficult to recognize because the symptoms vary widely. Below you can read about some common symptoms.

Changes in behavior

• Resistance when saddling up or swinging off;
• Irritation or aggressive behavior when touched on the back;
• More prancing, bucking, running or standing still;
• Difficulty relaxing.

Problems with movement

• Stiff back and difficulty bending or moving sideways;
• Short and irregular strides or lameness;
• Difficulty carrying weight;
• Difficulty galloping, e.g., irregular or skipping to a different rhythm.

Physical signals

• Sensitive back when touched or brushed;
• Hollow back, or difficulty bulging the back;
• Poor muscling on the back;
• Stiff or asymmetrical posture during movement.

If you are unsure if your horse is suffering from kissing spines, it is important to consult a veterinarian or equine veterinarian.

This is how to treat kissing spines in horses

1. Pain relief and anti-inflammatories

The symptoms of kissing spines in horses are often relieved with anti-inflammatories. This involves injections of corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatories to provide temporary relief.

2. Customized training

It is important to give the horse an appropriate training regimen. This often involves specific exercises to strengthen the back muscles and improve the horse’s posture. For example, you can lunge with correct posture or work on the hand.

3. Physical therapy and chiropractic

These therapies help make the back smoother and stronger. Here you can choose massage, stretching or chiropractic treatments. In addition, it may also be nice to have an animal physical therapist look at the horse.

4. Optimization of saddle and riding technique.

It is very important to use a well-fitting saddle. It is also important to use a correct riding style. By doing so, you reduce as much pressure on the back as possible and the horse suffers less pain. Riding a horse with kissing spines is possible because of this, but do it carefully.

5. Surgical procedure

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the vertebrae. This usually involves an interspinous ligament desmotomy. Surgery is often only necessary when other treatments fail.

6. Red light therapy

Red light therapy can help reduce pain and improve blood circulation in the back muscles. This makes it possible to relieve complaints and symptoms. You can perform this therapy yourself, for example with the PowerCure Pro red light therapy laser.

How can red light therapy help your horse?

A horse with kissing spines can benefit from red light therapy in several ways. Here’s what this form of light therapy can do for your horse with kissing spines:

Pain reduction

The red light penetrates deep into tissues and stimulates mitochondria in cells. This helps in the production of ATP (energy), which supports cells in the healing process and can reduce pain.

Inflammation inhibition

Due to improved blood circulation and cell activity, this form of light therapy can help reduce inflammation around affected vertebrae and muscles. This can relieve pressure and pain around the spinous processes.

Reducing muscle tension

Many horses with kissing spines have tense muscles as a result of the pain. Red light helps relax these muscles and reduces cramping. This can improve the horse’s range of motion.

Better blood flow and recovery

The improved microcirculation helps drain waste products and deliver oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. This speeds the recovery of damaged tissues and helps the horse move more comfortably.

Training and rehabilitation support

Using red light therapy before or after training can help keep muscles supple and prevent or treat stiffness. This is especially fine with an appropriate training program to make the horse’s back muscles stronger.

By using red light therapy the right way, it is possible to give your horse with kissing spines a nicer life. The PowerCure laser can provide these benefits.

Why should I choose PowerCure when treating kissing spine?

The PowerCure laser is a red light therapy device that you can use yourself. This makes it possible to treat your horse at any time. In addition, it can be used not only for horses, but also for dogs, cats and humans.