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Discussion on Rider with herniated discs. | |
Author | Message |
New Member: halter |
Posted on Saturday, Dec 12, 2009 - 7:23 pm: If anyone could give any suggestions I would be so grateful. I have a herniated disc at S1 and a bulged disc at L5. I do not want to give up trail riding! I have had the most pain free riding on rugged terrain in my Australian stockman saddle. The problem is getting my leg over the back of the saddle. The back problems prevent me from throwing my leg over the saddle. I bought an australian crossover. The swells don't support my legs coming down the hills. My Textan doesn't give me back support.I was thinking about trying a Stubben jumping saddle. Any advice? Would it be too wide in the front for my pelvis? I am an experienced rider with a good seat. I just have so much pain coming down hills without the swells and I can't climb on that saddle anymore... Thanks for listening.... |
Member: scooter |
Posted on Saturday, Dec 12, 2009 - 9:21 pm: Would putting on something like bucking rolls on your crossover work? |
Moderator: DrO |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 8:22 am: Hello DrM,It strikes me that the height you must raise your leg will also depend on the height you are mounting from. Would it not be possible to use a higher mounting block so you can mount your Australian Stock Saddle easier? My wife reminds me that you use to be able to purchase some of the synthetic dressage saddles with optional knee rolls of various sizes. Have you looked into this option? DrO |
Member: cheryl |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 9:25 am: Have you ever ridden in a good dressage saddle? They have a really deep seat - might work - know anyone who has one you can try? Could be worth it. Cheryl K |
Member: terrido |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 12:30 pm: HI Dr. M. I can relate as I am recouping now from a herniated disk in the lower lumbar area myself. I am not able nor allowed yet to get back on a horse though.I think what you are after in asking about a close contact jump saddle is the lower cantle for getting that leg over, which is not a bad idea but a jump saddle is not going to give you any forward support (like a swell in a trail style saddle) for going downhill. I agree you should look into a dressage saddle. I would steer clear of the "deep seat" style only because the cantle is much higher on that seat style. Up to you and what you are able to do. There are many manufacturers and styles of course, but the larger the thigh blocks the more support you will have for downhill riding. Course ideally it should fit you for that, and you may have issues with riding in a straighter leg, as some really make your leg go straight down under you. LOL If you have the ability I highly recommend working with a custom saddler as they can make the best recommendation for you and they can fit you in a nice saddle. Otherwise, if you have a local tack shop that carries used saddles I would start there. |
New Member: halter |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 1:46 pm: Thanks Everyone for your replies!Mounting blocks are great for the paddock, but I have to get off my horse on the trail sometimes. What are bucking rolls? I have no experience with English saddles at all, so I don't know where to start. I will see if I can find someone with a dressage saddle to let me try. Unfortunately, my horses all still buck on occasion! Crazy me, with my back, I should stick to a stick horse! Thanks again! Anita |
Member: terrido |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 2:23 pm: Well bucking is a separate topic, but normally stems from pain. First place to check that would be how well the saddle fits and where it is placed. ;)There are varying australian stock saddle styles that may be a good answer for you too, since you are most comfy in one anyway. Just of course make sure the saddle fits your horse correctly, no matter what you try on or decide to purchase it has to fit. Still, I would stay away from a close contact/jump saddle, they're not for the kind of riding you do. |
Member: leslie1 |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 2:45 pm: There is a 'Horsemaen with Disabilities" thread on another site I am on. I glean alot of tips from that thread. One product that is mentioned is called 'Riders Grip'. www.ridergrip.com ...maybe would help when going downhill. also they mention various 'seatsavers' alot.Have you considered a endurance type saddle? My trainer broke her back in several places last year and now rides pasos. I believe Terrie is right in that you dont want a jumping saddle. My english saddle is a hybrid dressage/all purpose. It has knee rolls, a longer flap,semi deep seat. I know...(grin), makes no sense...but I loff it a bunch. Best Wishes Leslie |
Member: leslie1 |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 3:10 pm: Hey, why dont you teach your horse to kneel? Seriously, its not hard to teach and can be very handy out on the trail.Leslie |
Member: scooter |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 10:07 pm: Anita I have never used bucking rolls and for some odd reason they just popped in my head when I read your post. They are suppose to help hold you in place when the horse bucks or you have a slick seat, if you google bucking rolls you will get the idea. Here is an example of one, you can find them MUCH cheaper, but this one had a picture of them on the saddle.https://www.hitchingpostsupply.com/product.asp?specific=jnpmgrh8 |
Member: scooter |
Posted on Sunday, Dec 13, 2009 - 10:29 pm: Here is a description of them...had to look, was wondering why they popped in my headI must have more info stuffed in there than I realize. My son just herniated 2 discs I feel for you and congrats for trying to stay "in the saddle" https://www.western-saddle-guide.com/slick-fork-saddle.html |
Member: mientjie |
Posted on Monday, Dec 14, 2009 - 8:48 am: Hi DrMI too have back problems and used to be in a lot of pain when riding. I now ride with a back brace, though its really ugly (in my opinion)it has helped me to be pain free no matter how long I ride at a time. Maybe that will help you too? I have a WOW dressage saddle and its gives amazing support and you can choose from a variety of seats to suit your needs. |
Member: dustee |
Posted on Monday, Dec 14, 2009 - 8:48 pm: "Professional Choice" has a back brace out which is moderately priced but provides marvelous support. I needed it for about five months when I was badly injured and still wanted to ride, and it was a total life-saver!! I also use dressage saddles and find them extremely stable. Good luck!! |