Ligamentum supraspinale
The supraspinous ligament is a fibrous cord running along the tops of the spinous processes from the withers to the sacrum. It originates and inserts continuously on the dorsal summit of each spinous process. Its actions are to limit excessive spinal flexion and support the back during locomotion. It is closely associated with the spinous processes and is particularly important in the region where kissing spines occur. It has sensory innervation from the dorsal rami of spinal nerves.
Origin: Dorsal summit of each spinous process (continuous)
Insertion: Dorsal summit of adjacent spinous processes (continuous chain)
Action: Limits excessive spinal flexion; supports the back during locomotion
Innervation: Sensory innervation from dorsal rami of spinal nerves
Relevant in evaluations of kissing spines and back pain. Desmitis or injury can contribute to back pain and reduced spinal flexibility. Diagnosis uses clinical examination and imaging (radiographs or ultrasound).
## Overview Desmitis is inflammation of a ligament. In the context of the back, it commonly refers to inflammation of the supraspinous ligament overlying the spinous processes. Overuse or trauma prod
## Overview Calcification in the equine context usually refers to dystrophic or metastatic deposition of calcium in soft tissues (tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules) or to heterotopic bone formati
Persistent back pain or reduced spinal flexibility should be evaluated. Correct saddle fit and balanced work help protect the region.
## Overview Desmitis is inflammation of a ligament. In the context of the back, it commonly refers to inflammation of the supraspinous ligament overlying the spinous processes. Overuse or trauma produces localized pain and stiffness that can be confused with kissing spines. It occurs frequently in jumping and dressage horses. ## Causes Repetitive strain from athletic work, poor saddle fit, or direct trauma. ## Diagnosis Pain on palpation along the topline, ultrasound showing ligament thickening or fiber disruption, and exclusion of primary osseous impingement. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, shock-wave therapy, and correction of contributing factors such as saddle fit. Return to work is gradual. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most cases with appropriate rest and rehabilitation. ## Prevention Proper saddle fit, balanced training, and adequate warm-up. Signs include: localized pain on palpation of the topline; back stiffness; resistance to rounding the back; ultrasound changes in the supraspinous ligament
## Overview Calcification in the equine context usually refers to dystrophic or metastatic deposition of calcium in soft tissues (tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules) or to heterotopic bone formation. It is often a secondary response to chronic injury, inflammation, or degeneration rather than a primary disease. Common sites include the suspensory ligament, deep digital flexor tendon, and periarticular tissues. ## Causes Chronic tendinopathy, repeated trauma, and certain metabolic disturbances can trigger calcium deposition. The exact triggers vary by location; evidence for systemic metabolic causes in horses is limited compared with local tissue injury. ## Diagnosis Radiographs or ultrasound reveal mineralized densities within soft tissues. Clinical significance depends on whether the calcification correlates with pain and lameness. Advanced imaging may be needed for precise localization. ## Treatment Management focuses on the underlying injury: rest, anti-inflammatories, and controlled rehabilitation. Extracorporeal shock wave or other modalities are sometimes used; evidence for dissolving established calcification is limited. Surgery is rarely indicated solely for calcification. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis depends on the primary lesion. Calcification itself may persist as a radiographic finding even after clinical improvement. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of soft-tissue injuries and avoidance of repetitive overload reduce the chance of secondary calcification. Signs include: variable lameness depending on location; palpable firm swelling; radiographic or ultrasound evidence of mineral density in soft tissue
Relevant in evaluations of kissing spines and back pain. Desmitis or injury can contribute to back pain and reduced spinal flexibility. Diagnosis uses clinical examination and imaging (radiographs or ultrasound).
Persistent back pain or reduced spinal flexibility should be evaluated. Correct saddle fit and balanced work help protect the region.
See the Supraspinous Ligament on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model