Riding with Arthritis

Listed in this post will be some ideas to help you enjoy your ride and hopefully make it more comfortable to enjoy riding down the trail, in the arena or where ever your adventures take you. As with all sports activities, you should always be honest with your health care provider so they may guide you for safe activities regarding your individual health. ( OK that is my only disclaimer)
TIPS for the Pre-Ride:

• Make sure that you have a buddy to ride with you in case something should happen
• Allow plenty of time to do all activities. Sometimes on "bad days" you don't realize how slow you move and you need to plan out time restraints, especially in a group
• make sure you carry a water bottle for hydration, even in winter. Many medications cause you to be dry.
• One of you should have a cell phone on your "body" not the saddle horn or saddle bags ( this is in case you get separated from your horse)
• Know your limits. If its a bad pain day "forgive yourself" don't push it...that is how accidents happen
• If its a bad day and you're at the barn...switch over to ground work or just doing a "spa day" for your horse. Many therapists will tell you there is benefit to just brushing your horse.
• Evaluate your tack/saddle/bridle. Is it light weight, can you lift it, Does your horse lower their head for you? If you can't saddle your horse you may consider a lighter saddle, or ask for assistance on bad days.
• Once you are tacked up...how are you going to mount?  start using a step stool. a solid variety so that the horse cannot get their legs tangled up while you are mounting.  there are different heights available.
• Make sure your horse will stand quietly at the mounting block. very important as your balance and strength is limited. In the beginning have a friend hold your horse to steady them until he can do it confidently by yourself.
• If your horse has high energy or you haven't ridden in a while ...use the round pen or longe him first. It only takes 10 mins and you can tell a lot about your horse's behavior before you step up in the saddle.
• Tighten that cinch at least 2 times before mounting...they all hold their breath....

TIPS for the Ride:

• If your going to ride in the arena, work on stretching , flexing ,bending exercises for you and your horse. Your Therapist can design exercises specifically for your situation and will make it more fun for you to do.
• Have a goal to achieve, vary the routine. Ride with friends on the same level. Follow the leader actually seems to work well. Use obstacles, poles and barrels to ride around to keep it interesting.
• If you haven't ridden or ride on a regular basis I would limit time to 30 mins so you don't get sore.
• If you are going out on the trail plan for how long you want to be gone. remember if it is one hour out, its one hour back!! Take 5 min breaks either on or off the horse. Vibration and motion of your horse can be  positive for your muscles but if you over-do it you will be cursing by the end of the ride. Travel with an experienced trail horse and rider. Horses are herd animals and if your buddy is calm then you will be calm. I prefer an older horse ( 14 yrs or older) they have usually been there, done that attitude.
• Remember to take any medications that are needed. Carry saddle bags. Remember on  the trail you are out away from civilization. Always keep A list of allergies and meds, medical conditions with you .
• I have found it beneficial to use a sheepskin saddle cover for added hip comfort. You can trial any of the various types, but the thicker the better.
• I have also found it beneficial and more comfortable to go to a bigger seat/size in saddle to accommodate the hip position. Once you have surgery, you will actually have better leg position, however you need to always point your toe/foot forward to avoid undue pressure on the Teflon socket. Some riders have switched back to english or australian saddles

AFTER THE RIDE:

• Dismount using a block again....you will be stiff and this will help reduce the shock on knee joints. Be prepared for the knees to hurt a little as they now absorb the pressure from the hip.
• After taking off tack , rest by sitting down for about 10 mins before going onto the next activity. I was always able to run around and fly threw my "horse chores" but now its slower and you need to pace yourself or this isn't fun anymore.
• Think about your body mechanics with everything you do. always think about how to reduce your body and joint stress.
• Make sure your horse is ground "respectful" and does not push on you as your balance my not be steady. I have found using my handy stick or carring a small crop with me in my horse invades "my bubble". Ground work and manners are the key for being a "handicapped rider"

The day is over and you have spent precious time with your "buddy" and good friends. I hope you took lots of pictures, and plan for your next ride.
Stay tuned for future blogs. " My first over night trip post hip surgery" Camping with friends
Happy trails and keep smilin :)