Horseback riding is a fun activity that many people enjoy as a relaxing hobby or as a serious sport. However, it is important to keep in mind that this activity comes along with many inherent dangers including spine, rib, joint pain. What are some of the most common horseback riding injuries and how can you avoid them?
Injuries Associated with Riding Horses
There are quite a few different injuries a person can sustain while riding a horse. For example, lower back pain, sciatica, and SI joint pain are all common. Why is this the case? When trotting or cantering, repetitive spinal compression occurs. This can lead to disc compression or herniated discs. A herniated disc can then compress the sciatic nerve. And these are just some of the possible complications that can occur, even if you never take a tumble off of the horse.
4 Methods for Reducing Injuries Related to Horseback Riding
To reduce your risk of injury, try implementing these four tips:
- Strengthen Your Core – Exercises that strengthen the abs, lower back, and glutes, can help you to maintain proper posture while riding. This will both help improve your riding ability and make it less likely for you to suffer an injury as your spine won’t have to absorb as much of the impact.
- Listen to Your Body – Repetitive strains occur when we make our body complete the same motion over and over again. Unfortunately, for one reason or another, we may not stop the repetitive motion just because it hurts. Your body knows when something is wrong. Listen to it. If you are experiencing pain, stop what you are doing and get help. If 48 hours of rest doesn’t solve the problem, it’s more than just a simple muscle strain.
- Address Pain Immediately – Sometimes pain can be relieved simply by addressing it right away. For example, ice is great for swelling in the first couple of days after an injury. However, after a couple of days have gone by, your ability to reduce swelling is limited. Whether it is ice, NSAIDs, or a visit to the chiropractor, address the pain right away.
- Regular Chiropractic Treatment – Good spinal maintenance is also important. Taking care of misalignments as they occur can reduce the risk of injury. On the other hand, the compression that takes place while horseback riding is compounded if the spine that is being compressed over and over is already out of alignment.
Have You Been to the Chiropractor Lately?
Whether you are in pain or simply want to schedule a regular maintenance appointment, you’ll love Ward Chiropractic & Rehabilitation. We have convenient office hours (even on Saturday mornings) and flexible payment options. Plus, Dr. Ward is experienced in both chiropractic and rehabilitation techniques and treatments. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call (703) 672-1661 today.
