Physiotherapy for
Horse Riders
The Athletic Equestrian
If you’re reading this page, I will assume that you’re connected to riding in some way. And, if you’re a horse lover, you would likely do anything to take care of your horse. We often ask them to perform at high levels which requires demands on their bodies. And guess what? It’s really no different for us as riders too.
We are also athletes and need to be in peak condition – especially if we’re competing. It’s just that sometimes we forget to take care of ourselves. Are you raising your hand?
Being an efficient and effective rider requires our physical abilities to be at our best. When we’re strong, straight and in a good position, we can ensure our horses get the best rides possible. We communicate with our horses through our bodies which affects the physical well being and performance of our horses.
As a rider, I’ve had multiple injuries – because, you know…falls happen sometimes! I’ve had to do Physiotherapy treatments, Regenerative Medicine, stretching and strength programs to get me back in the saddle. I also do the day to day work of maintaining my strength, balance and position on and off the horse.
Due to these injuries, along with decades of experience treating athletes, I have dedicated a specific part of my Physiotherapy practice to helping YOU. I will tailor a treatment program that best fits YOUR GOALS. Just like with horses, there is no one thing that fits all.
And, I love making exercises and treatment functional so you can relate everything back to sitting on your horse. Which of course benefits your horse too!
Sports Physiotherapy For Equestrians Includes
Full in clinic detailed assessment for your areas of concern.
Specific treatment based on the assessment findings which can include:
Manual therapy (hands on) for treatment of soft tissues, joints, and nerve injuries
Specific active movements to manage pain
Gunn IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation)
Dedicated strength program – both on and off your horse
Guidance about how to modify activities in the short term while keeping you riding.
Referral to other medical professionals as needed (I have a network of connections from almost 3 decades in this profession!)
My goal is to ensure you’re healthy and fit so you can enjoy being on your horse! And your horse enjoys you!
Video Analysis of your riding to enhance the treatment plan and/or to assess the areas that need targeting for injury prevention and maintaining your strength and position on your horse. (Instructions on how to record the video will be provided during treatment sessions.)
Common Injuries:
Low back pain
Sacroiliac Joint (Pelvis) pain
Hip pain, stiffness, weakness
Neck pain
Upper body and shoulder pain
Weak core and lower body muscle imbalance
Weak shoulder blade stabilizers, arms and upper body
Altered Body position
Ahead of the motion
Behind the motion
Twisted – upper or lower body (pelvis/shoulders)
Now imagine…you’re in balance…you’re strong…your horse is in balance…and you have harmony and synergy. What could be better than that?
