## Overview Spondylosis deformans is the formation of bridging bone spurs between adjacent vertebral bodies. It is often an incidental finding in older horses on radiographs or at necropsy. Extensive bridging may reduce spinal flexibility and contribute to back stiffness, but many horses show no clinical signs. ## Causes Age-related degeneration or previous instability. ## Diagnosis Radiographs showing ventral bridging osteophytes. ## Treatment None if asymptomatic. Management of stiffness if clinical. ## Recovery and Prognosis The bony changes are permanent but often not limiting. ## Prevention None.
often asymptomatic; may cause back stiffness if extensive; reduced spinal flexibility; usually incidental on radiographs
## Overview Spondylosis deformans is the formation of bridging bone spurs between adjacent vertebral bodies. It is often an incidental finding in older horses on radiographs or at necropsy. Extensive bridging may reduce spinal flexibility and contribute to back stiffness, but many horses show no clinical signs. ## Causes Age-related degeneration or previous instability. ## Diagnosis Radiographs showing ventral bridging osteophytes. ## Treatment None if asymptomatic. Management of stiffness if clinical. ## Recovery and Prognosis The bony changes are permanent but often not limiting. ## Prevention None.
often asymptomatic; may cause back stiffness if extensive; reduced spinal flexibility; usually incidental on radiographs