Questions and answers
Kising Spine (Veterinary)
By Sammy Joe - 2 months ago
I am looking for a bit of advice as to what i can do with my horse. I had a vet come out and xray my THB and i was told that i looks like kissing spine. So he did not confirm that. My stable manager also says that she thinks that it is kissing spine. He goes like a super star when he is being lunged but as soon as any weight is put on his back then the show signs of pain. Im having weekly treatments of the bemmer blanket and i am being told it is helping but its going on the 4tyh month now with the bemmer and well im told that its still going to take time for the back to heal. He has had back pain for a while now and i have taken my saddle away as i was told that, it did not fit quite that well. I have now also been told that i should look at cortisone injections. Im scared to have that done to my horse. My boy and i are happy hackers and i dont compete at all. so i dont know if i should have it done as i have read that it gets done to all top riders. but if i have to i will. i just need some sort of advice to see if i should or should not cortisone!!!! Is there anyone that can help me as i dont really have an answer. thanks so much Sam
Kising Spine (Veterinary)
By Paul - 2 months ago
Hi there
Kissing spines typically will show more pain as soon as weight is put on the horse. I assume that you have done some reading up, and have a fair idea of what the condition entails?
My first advice would be to concentrate on exercises that will strengthen the back muscles, to so enable them to carry more weight. There are numerous exercises that you could do, all based on having the horse work more rounded. Play around on Google to find more detail on this.
If this does not have the desired results, cortisone injections are a good option. They usually show good results, but have to be repeated. There are some side-effects, but if used correctly, at the right dose and right interval, these do not weigh up against the positive effect that you'll see.
Regards
Paul