Kissing Spines (Overriding Dorsal Spinous Processes / ORDSP)
In kissing spines, the dorsal spinous processes of neighbouring thoracic/lumbar vertebrae lie too close together or touch, which can cause irritation and back pain. Important: a radiographic finding alone does not necessarily mean discomfort — the overall picture of imaging and clinical signs is decisive.
Veterinary care required
This condition belongs in veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Compounds are at most supportive.
Priority · vet & management
Diagnosis (clinical exam, radiography/scintigraphy) and a therapy/build-up plan belong in veterinary hands; central are saddle fitting, targeted physiotherapeutic back training and correct, back-lifting riding. Compounds are only adjunctive.
Possible causes
- · anatomical predisposition and vertebral conformation
- · overload and back musculature that does not carry
- · an ill-fitting saddle and rider influence
- · compensatory with other lamenesses/pain sources
Supportive compounds · supplementary feed, not medication
MSM
AMGFEI freeorganic sulphur source, discussed as antioxidant (adjunctive)
Compound profile →Linseed
AMGFEI freeomega-3 (ALA) for the inflammatory balance
Compound profile →Magnesium
AMGFEI freemajor element for neuromuscular function; discussed with muscular tension
Compound profile →Rosehip
AMGFEI freeantioxidant polyphenols (general movement comfort, adjunctive)
Compound profile →Ginger
AMGFEI freegingerols, traditionally used for movement comfort
Compound profile →Prevention
A fitting saddle, systematic build-up of a load-bearing back musculature and correct, back-friendly riding work prevent back problems.
Equiterna's take
Equiterna always reads kissing spines in the overall picture of imaging, clinical signs, saddle, training and musculature — never as a mere radiographic finding.
Usage note
This content is for information and education. It does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your horse shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian.
Equiterna is an intermediary platform for equine knowledge, marketplace and tools — not a veterinary-medicines dealer, veterinary practice or pharmacy. Compound information is study-attributed and free of healing claims. Legal framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/6 / TAMG (DE/AT), Feed Regulation (EC) 767/2009, FEI Prohibited Substances List, HWG.