X ray yes, but it really needs to be with a clinic based machine, not a hand held. They have the detail that can really see the spinous process.
You may also be asking about signs before the xray. For mine, he never refused but he was 'worried' at the barrel race. Also, for those that don't refuse, but go in and try to work they will be rougher, and they'll stop clocking. Mine was doing funky stuff like leaping out of the 2nd barrel and hopping around the third. His left side was most impacted. You may also notice they stop willingly picking up a lead. Just like if someone has a back issue it may impact one side or the other, same with this.
I'm dealing with this now, confirmed by xray, 2 treatments of mesotherapy and injections at the 2 sites...they made him more comfortable, but not enough to make a run. WE're going forward with the surgery in the fall.
Good luck to you. Suggestion is go to the Horse.com, register, and there are some good articles on this subjects, studies, outcomes, etc.
Kissing Spine?
