Advice - issues with achey knee and ankles

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gembear

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I've had an on going issue with my left knee that has been getting worse, due to both running and riding (and getting older). I see a physio about it every so often but because he doesn't understand horse riding or really the mechanics of it he can't offer solid guidance on this....

I've got exercises i'm doing, but the pain in my knee when riding is getting more noticeable. It's getting to the point it's hurting after riding (and running but I ride more then I run). I do have issues with my hips and glutes too (the list seems never ending) whereby my left hip twists inwards. I think this effects my left knee and also my lower leg, which I find hard to keep still and often swings back and forth (other leg doesn't do this). I noticed this even more so recently when a friend videoed me at a comp (i felt quite embarrassed about it really....) I get pain in both ankles every so often too... more so when hacking and stirrups go up one hole.

So... i'm thinking of getting some new stirrups in the hope they help? Currently use plain irons. I know the sprenger stirrups get good reviews (athough expensive) but perhaps other ones would be better for me based on the above?

I know it's hard to know from reading the above but if anyone has any suggestions other than stirrups i'm all ears!
I just do some low level dressage and local showing, so ideally looking for stirrups that won't look out of place (ie. bright pink!).

Thanks :)
 
This has been a common thing on here recently. There shouldn't be downward pressure in the stirrups when riding, I'm not saying this is what you do but is the most common reason for aching anything legs related. The legs should hang and you need to find your 'plugging' into the saddle and the horses back. Many people do not sit on their bottom when riding and instead end up propping themselves 'onto' the saddle without realising making from toes to hips tense and ultimately painful.

The twisting of the hip will undoubtedly be causing problems and pain. I would see a good chiropractor to straighten you out and then get exercises from your physio to strengthen the muscles to keep you straight. This may take time and repeated visits to both but ultimately worth it. Alexander technique lessons for posture and releasing muscle tension will also be beneficial.
 
Thanks for advice Zipzop. I've been seeing a physio for the last two years, and have various exercises to do regarding my issues.

Be interested to know if I do what you say RE legs when riding. Probably. Everything i've tried so far hasn't made a difference, which is why I thought maybe a change of something tack related may help.
 
The best way to find out is to ride if you can without stirrups, just walking, nothing hectic, for a period of time which would make yours joints usually hurt. If you don't get any pain then you will know it is due to pushing down, albeit without realising in the stirrups.
 
I am with flirtygerty , wouldnt be able to do what I do without Turmeric . It does have to be taken with pepper and an antiinflammatory oil for the best effect . the Turmeric user group on facebook is a great help
 
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