Long time no post!
I am just now getting back into riding after a year long battle with my back (though I’ve been in pain for 10 years). I have two torn discs in my L4 and L5, and I’ve got an old fracture between my shoulder blades. 3 weeks ago, I finished the rhizotomies on both my left and right side of my L4 and L5, because there is nothing else they can really do for the pain besides a muscle relaxer and NSAIDs. I finally rode on Saturday, and it was my first real ride on my boy since last year, including my first flying lead change on him . My abs and my thighs sure are sore but it was worth it!
Foreigner has been in training this whole time, and is now showing PSG with my trainer. He is on track for Grand Prix next year. I am going to start taking weekly lessons on him, increasing the amount over time so that I will be able to show him myself in 2023. I enjoy watching him learn and develop, and I’m not in a huge hurry. It’s amazing to see him continue to grow.
My trainer and I discussed as I start taking over the rides more often, we might consider finding me a new saddle that fits him and I better. Right now I ride in her Custom Wolfgang; and while it is comfortable, the thighblocks don’t hit me right and it doesn’t help much. I have a Black Country at home but not only does it need to be reflocked (the last time I did it was in 2019), it really doesn’t do me any favors either. I do like to trail ride my mountain horse in it though.
I am going to add in yoga and do ab work and cardio so I can get stronger, now that I am not stuck on the couch in pain. But, I want to stack the deck in my favor. Any of you that have back problems, do you have a suggestion?
I don’t have a budget. I can save as long as necessary because I can keep riding in my trainer’s saddle until I get my own, and my back is worth it, quite honestly. I do want wool flocked because I need it to be able to be reflocked and adjusted. I do like the Customs, but I’m willing to look at other brands.
I appreciate it!