In 40 seconds
Kissing spines (overriding dorsal spinous processes) is a common equine back condition causing pain, behavioural changes, and poor performance under saddle. Treatment options include surgery, mesotherapy, steroid injections, and structured ridden rehabilitation. PEMF therapy reduces local inflammation in the dorsal spinous processes and supports muscle health in the back, making it a popular adjunct.
Quick facts
- Affects: Up to 35% of sport horses on imaging
- Treatments: Surgery, mesotherapy, injections, ridden rehab
- PEMF role: Reduces inflammation, supports back muscle health
- Sessions: 3× per week initially, taper to weekly
- Always with: Vet diagnosis + ridden rehab
Practical guidance
See FAQ below for specific scenarios.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Will PEMF avoid surgery?
For mild cases, possibly — combined with proper ridden rehab. For severe pinching, surgery may still be needed.
Which applicator?
Full-body equine blanket or a long applicator placed along the affected spinous processes.
How long until improvement?
Most yards see behavioural improvement under saddle in 4–6 weeks of regular PEMF + rehab.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.