Pregnancy & SPD

[noblesteed]

Hi all, hope u all had a merry christmas

I am 29 weeks pregnant and just been told I have SPD... I stopped riding at 20 weeks with sciatica and then I have had awful aches and pains ever since and been unable to bend down or lift things, or walk very far (field and back is my limit!) I wouldn't dream of sitting on my horse now anyway as I have turned into a heffalump due to lack of exercise...
Physiotherapist told me it's fairly common and that I mustn't attempt to ride until at least 3 months after baby is born.

Just wondered what experiences other riders have had of this condition. I am still doing the horse and have a sharer to help and she is riding. Is 3 months a realistic expectation for me to be back in the saddle? I am hoping sharer will stay on indefinitely so once I am riding again we will be sharing that too, and she can compete if she likes while I take it steady.

 

[indiat]

I had SPD that went undiagnosed (thanks to my dopey doctor) until a week before I was due with my second. I would take the doctors advise, do loads of physio and stay out of the saddle until it is well and truly gone. SPD is nasty and can linger on, because I wasn't getting physio throughout my pregnancy or supporting my bump, I suffered the effects of it for a good year afterwards. Good luck!

 

[xemonsus]

I had SPD with both of my children you have my sympathy its really not nice, no one can tell you how long it will take, you must just listen to your own body and make your own judgement. I had c sections with both (for other problems) but i was back in the saddle albeit only hacking out quietly after about 2 months but really once your baby is here theres lots else to enjoy. Horses will be there waiting for you when your ready. Good luck and enjoy being mum!

 

[Always Henesy]

I had SPD with my 3rd pregnancy. From about 29 weeks onwards I couldn't walk. The pain and discomfort was horrific and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. I also developed an under active Thyroid which is now with me for life.
I was left 5 stone overweight after my pregnancy due to Thyroid and SPD (couldn't exercise at all).
It took me 4 years before they got my Thyroxine levels right and only now am I losing the weight (I have lost just over a stone and praying for another 2 to come off)
The SPD gave me problems for about a year after having my baby. But all good now.
Just go with how you feel, but would definitely leave it at least 3 months.
xx

 

[Syrah]

Another SPD sufferer here. With my first, I was on crutches for the final weeks of pregnancy.

See how you feel and take their advice. It may clear up pretty quickly or it may linger. With my 2nd, it did linger for a couple of months afterwards.

Take it easy and put your feet up

 

[Spiritedly]

I had it too, also with my second pregnancy! I agree with what others have said, listen to your own body it will let you know when it feels able to cope! Don't try to rush things, I was threatened with a wheelchair for my last two months but luckily was able to manage without. Good luck and do what you feel comfortable doing but make sure you rest.

 

[noblesteed]

Thanks everyone for the advice. It is really horrible isn't it?
I have had enforced rest because I couldn't really walk for 3 weeks so couldn't go to work as an infant teacher! I am just doing as much as I can manage, I have put on weight too due to lack of exercise but at least I can do bits around the stables to stop me going stir crazy - and leave the water buckets and picking feet out to my lovely helpers!
I guess I am lucky they found it now, I have got a walking stick and bump support and exercises to do so hopefully I can limit the damage. I am determined I am not going to let it beat me!!