Riding with Hypermobility syndrome

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GingerTrotter

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Hi there.
I've seen some threads about this so know there are a few of us out there.
I'm looking for people's experience with hip subluxes / dislocations in the saddle. My syndrome is getting worse over the years but I'm determined not to give up.
I ride a wide(ish) Welsh D and when working hard in the school my hips are popping out every time. Has anyone else engineered out the problem? I'm debating trying a western saddle as a last ditch attempt to keep my legs attached to my body! Don't want to have to replace my beloved horse with a narrower one 😢
Thanks in advance.
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CrazyMare said:
My hypermobility is nowhere near as bad as yours, so I can't offer any help or advice, but you have my sympathy.
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Thank you! I've already got my big baby warm blood up for sale as it's getting a bit too much for me but really want to hang on to the other two. One retired and the Welshie. She a cracking wee horse but a bit sharp so pops my hips out! I've no suspension anymore 😢
I constantly sublux everywhere but do an hour of physio a night to build the muscles around the joint. Hard work but really helps. I don't think it helps riding but I'm determined not to give up!
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Have you looked at trying K tape? Kinesiology tape - there's loads of videos on how to apply it.
You can also have a belt made which will keep your hips and pelvis more secure. Slightly more expensive and takes a while to get used to so I would recommend the tape first x
 
My ankles are most affected for riding but I find the flexi/comfort stirrup irons really help with my knees too, so perhaps that is an option if you haven't already tried?

A different type of saddle sounds like it could be worth a try too - not necessarily western, but for example I find it infinitely more comfortable to ride in a dressage saddle than a GP or jump.

Finally I find pilates extremely helpful for strengthening as well as physio.
 
I'm currently in a dressage saddle and that does make a lot of difference. I can't keep my lower leg under control in a GP anymore and end up tipping forwards.
 
Test drive a WOW. They have a different shape from any other saddle. Beneath the twist there is a hollow on each side. The top of your thigh sits in those hollows, do your hips don't spread so wide. It's also very secure because of that 'lock'.

If you are anywhere near me I'd be happy to sit you in one of mine. I can't sell you one, but at least you could try it with no sales pressure.
 
missmatch said:
Have you looked at trying K tape? Kinesiology tape - there's loads of videos on how to apply it.
You can also have a belt made which will keep your hips and pelvis more secure. Slightly more expensive and takes a while to get used to so I would recommend the tape first x
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It's called a SIJ BELT. I suffer from fibromyalgia , I've also got carple tunnel syndrome in my hands
 
My sympathies - only one of my hips pops out, so I cheat by sitting slightly off centre when it's bad.

Pilates has been pretty helpful, also experiment with shortening and lengthening your stirrups. Mine go up and down like yoyos each day depending on how I'm feeling/how horse is feeling, it really can make a huge difference.
 
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