Horses with or with sacroiliac subluxation are at a higher risk of developing intervertebral disc disease as these individuals are at a higher risk of vertebral subluxation. The most common areas to see disc herniation is in the cervical and thoraco-lumbar regions. Intervertebral disc disease is seen clinically as decreased range of motion of the back, reluctance to perform specific movements, vague lameness, vertebral subluxations that are visible or palpable, and palpable fibrosis of the supraspinous ligament. In the acute phase there may be local heat, muscle spasms and pain on palpation, while the chronic condition may result in palpable cold spots over the back. If the subluxation or herniation of the disc puts pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves, signs may also be noted. Diagnosis of intervertebral disc disease is difficult as the clinical presentation is similar to vertebral subluxation. Clinical signs and symptoms, range of motion testing, palpation, radiography, nuclear scintigraphy, MRI and thermography may be used in combination to indicate the presence of intervertebral disc disease though definitive diagnosis may not be possible. There is no definitive treatment for intervertebral disc disease as it is thought to be progressive. Rest and the administration of NSAID’s or corticosteroids may be required to reduce inflammation and pain, massage to reduce the fibrosis of the ligaments and to address compensatory muscle pain, controlled exercise program to increase the strength of the abdominal muscles and the injection of into the intervertebral space to promote ankylosis may be used. Acupuncture or chiropractic adjustment may also be beneficial. Prognosis for horses affected by intervertebral disc disease is poor as the condition is progressive and ankylosis results in restricted movement of the back, which limits most athletic exercise.
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