Spinal fracture and huge confidence hit, the future is a scary unknown :(

[Miggy99]

Just wanted to say don't be so hard on yourself. It doesn't follow that you cannot sit a spook any more because you didn't sit this one.

I had a bad accident in August 2021 and it has taken an AGE to be riding again - though I am assuming I am a lot older than you. I have a friend who has been exercising my horse twice a week since January 2022 and that has been a godsend. I know why it happened and that has given me the confidence to get back on. I am now at 30-40 minutes riding before the gammy leg gives out, and I am getting stronger every month. I can now realistically think about going back to what I love next year, which is only low-level dressage and fun rides - I'm no great shakes at this!

I would second getting specialist physio as soon as you are ready for it. I found the NHS one worse than useless - they just printed exercise sheets for me.

Oh I'm sorry you've had such a long recovery, that's horrible. I'm 41, but feel a lot older at times as I've had a bad back already for about 10 years! I think I'm going to have to look into getting a part-loaner once winter is over, as I'm not going to be able to ride as much as he needs to be ridden even if I can get back on.

 

[Trouper]

Just breathe. You are rushing your fences when you are not in any fit state to make any long-term decisions. Not only have you had a bad scare but your body has been put through some serious trauma and you just need to switch off the mental activity and give things time to heal.

I am sure that they told you that healing takes 6 weeks - they always say that. It is only the start. For spinal injuries physio is the thing which will make the difference between a good recovery and an OK one. Unfortunately NHS physio sessions are often limited so if you can add to that in any way it will help enormously - but I guess no physio will touch you inside the 6 weeks mark. My physio told me that it often takes a year for the body fully to recover from a serious operation - although you don't necessarily need physio for all that time and you will be able to do more and more as you get stronger.

I say all this from experience. Just after retiring I had my lower spine fused because of constant pain which nothing else would alleviate. Then at 67 I decided that I would like to return to riding (after 30 years of career and family responsibilities) so I did. The deal was that I would always wear a body protector (or there would be a divorce). Then of course I wanted my own horse. A few years on I needed a disc decompression op so back to the physio, exercises and onwards and upwards. My rubbish spine has finally made me forgo having my own horse these days but I did have a sneaky ride on a friend's horse last month and it was fine. I can't speak about the confidence issue as I have never been a nervous rider but I can quite understand that you might want to seek some help with that while you are healing.

I say all this to encourage you that it is not all doom and gloom - though I know it feels like it now. The most important thing is to follow the medics' advice, be assiduous about doing any exercises they give and let tomorrow take care of itself. By the way the very best exercise I was told is just to get in the pool and walk.

It is a long road you are setting out on but I hope you are feeling better about things soon.

 

[Miggy99]

Just breathe. You are rushing your fences when you are not in any fit state to make any long-term decisions. Not only have you had a bad scare but your body has been put through some serious trauma and you just need to switch off the mental activity and give things time to heal.

I am sure that they told you that healing takes 6 weeks - they always say that. It is only the start. For spinal injuries physio is the thing which will make the difference between a good recovery and an OK one. Unfortunately NHS physio sessions are often limited so if you can add to that in any way it will help enormously - but I guess no physio will touch you inside the 6 weeks mark. My physio told me that it often takes a year for the body fully to recover from a serious operation - although you don't necessarily need physio for all that time and you will be able to do more and more as you get stronger.

I say all this from experience. Just after retiring I had my lower spine fused because of constant pain which nothing else would alleviate. Then at 67 I decided that I would like to return to riding (after 30 years of career and family responsibilities) so I did. The deal was that I would always wear a body protector (or there would be a divorce). Then of course I wanted my own horse. A few years on I needed a disc decompression op so back to the physio, exercises and onwards and upwards. My rubbish spine has finally made me forgo having my own horse these days but I did have a sneaky ride on a friend's horse last month and it was fine. I can't speak about the confidence issue as I have never been a nervous rider but I can quite understand that you might want to seek some help with that while you are healing.

I say all this to encourage you that it is not all doom and gloom - though I know it feels like it now. The most important thing is to follow the medics' advice, be assiduous about doing any exercises they give and let tomorrow take care of itself. By the way the very best exercise I was told is just to get in the pool and walk.

It is a long road you are setting out on but I hope you are feeling better about things soon.

Thankyou. Do you know I wasn't able to get an answer from them about how long I'd need off work?! The surgeon said 8 weeks, the I told the physio I'm a dog groomer and he said no way will I be back after 8 weeks, more likely a conservative 12 weeks but even that wasn't definite. So I'm in limbo with that as well. Riding is taking a definite back seat until at least June/July as we're away in June and I'm not going to do anything to jeopardise that! The follow up with the surgeon is meant to be 6 weeks post-surgery so hopefully I'll get more answers then.

I'm such an over thinker I find it so hard to switch off and not make plans etc, that in itself fuels my anxiety levels which is why I've done the referral for counselling.

 

[eahotson]

Just wanted to say sorry about your horrible fall.As others have said, give yourself time to decide when/if the right time to ride will be.Enjoy your dogs!!

 

[Sossigpoker]

The paramedics did put me on a spinal board for the transfer to hospital and they checked down my spine. The doctors checked again twice when I got to A&E, but it was presenting as muscular so they didn't X-ray. It was only when they said they needed the bed, but that I needed to be able to sit and stand and that I should try to sit up. They left me to try and sit, so I pulled myself up using the bed rails and they came to recheck my spine, at which point I could feel like spasms at the fracture point, so she pressed harder and I shrieked with the pain. At that point they ordered an X-ray. I really think they should've X-rayed immediately to rule out any fractures, and I feel very lucky that the attempts to sit up didn't cause and further damage!

I've had my boy for 3 years, he's 5.5yo and I backed and broke him myself. I was more confident previously but had a fall back in April, which although I wasn't badly hurt did knock my confidence as it was my first fall from him, and first for 13 years! I'd always been able to sit anything, so now 2 falls in 7 months has me massively questioning that ability. My brain is questioning if I can no longer sit a spook is it really safe to even consider getting back on. We have a holiday to the Lake District booked for June so I have absolutely no intention of getting back on before that just in case.

I think it's awful they didn't even x-ray after a fall from a horse!
I had a CT scan as soon as I was brought in. And incidentally, my fracture site (L2) wasn't particularly painful to touch but I had the most horrific pain in my pelvis, it felt like my pelvis had been crushed instead.

I got chucked off on Friday , I always wear my air jacket when I ride now so no major injuries although I think I've broken a finger !
If you ride horses , you may well fall off occasionally. My horse took off in canter and took me by surprise.

Given your surgeries, I'd say that trying to ride before next summer is probably too soon. Even without surgeries I waited for nearly 6 months

Try not to decide on what your riding future looks like now , just focus on rest and physio and take it each day at a time

If you do want to ride again one day ,I'd definitely recommend an air jacket though

 

[Britestar]

They won't want you to do physio yet. The bones need time to heal.
Be patient, its worth it.

 

[Miggy99]

I think it's awful they didn't even x-ray after a fall from a horse!
I had a CT scan as soon as I was brought in. And incidentally, my fracture site (L2) wasn't particularly painful to touch but I had the most horrific pain in my pelvis, it felt like my pelvis had been crushed instead.

I got chucked off on Friday , I always wear my air jacket when I ride now so no major injuries although I think I've broken a finger !
If you ride horses , you may well fall off occasionally. My horse took off in canter and took me by surprise.

Given your surgeries, I'd say that trying to ride before next summer is probably too soon. Even without surgeries I waited for nearly 6 months

Try not to decide on what your riding future looks like now , just focus on rest and physio and take it each day at a time

If you do want to ride again one day ,I'd definitely recommend an air jacket though

Yes sounds the same as me, me pain was horrific all across my lower back between my waist and hips but didn’t feel particularly to be coming from my spine.

 

[Miggy99]

I think it's awful they didn't even x-ray after a fall from a horse!
I had a CT scan as soon as I was brought in. And incidentally, my fracture site (L2) wasn't particularly painful to touch but I had the most horrific pain in my pelvis, it felt like my pelvis had been crushed instead.

I got chucked off on Friday , I always wear my air jacket when I ride now so no major injuries although I think I've broken a finger !
If you ride horses , you may well fall off occasionally. My horse took off in canter and took me by surprise.

Given your surgeries, I'd say that trying to ride before next summer is probably too soon. Even without surgeries I waited for nearly 6 months

Try not to decide on what your riding future looks like now , just focus on rest and physio and take it each day at a time

If you do want to ride again one day ,I'd definitely recommend an air jacket though

When they finally xrayed then ct scanned and found the fracture I couldn’t believe they’d had me moving in the bed and sitting up without knowing for sure there was no fracture, it’s madness really.

Oh sorry you’ve hurt your finger, I’ve had my thumb bent back before stopping my horse from spooking into the road when he was a baby and it was so painful and awkward to do anything for a while after.

Definitely, we’re booked to go to the Lake District for a week in June so I’m absolutely keeping my feet firmly on the ground at least until after that and I’ll be investing in an air jacket if I decide to get back in even if it ends up only being used once if I decide to give up completely!

 

[SEL]

I'm not surprised you're feeling down - that was an awful accident and the "what ifs" will be going round your head

Although private physio is expensive it was critical for getting both me and my OH back to normal after back injuries (neither horse related). Could you get a sharer for your horse to help with the bills? So many physios these days just give a list of exercises whereas the treatment side - I'd call it massage but that suggests it's relaxing! - is so critical to loosening up tight muscles and relieving compensation patterns. I find the ACPAT horse physios are usually great human physios because they know hands on is so important.

 

[Miggy99]

I'm not surprised you're feeling down - that was an awful accident and the "what ifs" will be going round your head

Although private physio is expensive it was critical for getting both me and my OH back to normal after back injuries (neither horse related). Could you get a sharer for your horse to help with the bills? So many physios these days just give a list of exercises whereas the treatment side - I'd call it massage but that suggests it's relaxing! - is so critical to loosening up tight muscles and relieving compensation patterns. I find the ACPAT horse physios are usually great human physios because they know hands on is so important.

I am thinking about part loaning or possibly full loaning him once we’re through winter. He can be spicy in winter anyway so I think getting anyone in to share him now would be unfair to them. Hopefully by March I may be able to lunge and long rein him a bit to bring him back into work then get a sharer in at that point to do more with him. I’m certainly going to want him to be ridden a decent amount prior to me attempting to get back on if that’s what I choose to do!

There is actually a chiropractic and sports massage place locally to me which my dad has been using and the sports massage has worked wonders for his back pain, so after some initial physio I’m keen to have some fairly regular sessions with them to keep me on track.

 

[Mrs. Jingle]

I have only just read this thread and just want to say I am so sorry you had this horrendous injury after your fall. Please take everything slowly and let time and patience be your best medication. Your horse will still be there when you are ready to ride again, and if you know someone you trust 100 per cent then a temporary loan might be a good idea for your horse and for your peace of mind. One less thing to be stressing over.

Huge healing vibes and get well as soon as possible. x

 

[Miggy99]

I have only just read this thread and just want to say I am so sorry you had this horrendous injury after your fall. Please take everything slowly and let time and patience be your best medication. Your horse will still be there when you are ready to ride again, and if you know someone you trust 100 per cent then a temporary loan might be a good idea for your horse and for your peace of mind. One less thing to be stressing over.

Huge healing vibes and get well as soon as possible. x

I don’t really know anyone that doesn’t already have their own horse, but I do think a temporary part or full loan once we get to March is the way forward. I’d stipulate he is to stay at the current yard as I trust the girls there to keep an eye on things and it’s close enough for me to pop down to see him still

 

[IrishMilo]

That sounds terrifying and you're bound to have some PTSD, even without the spine fracture that fall alone sounds really scary. I fell flat on my back about a year ago and thought I'd broken my neck, it shook me up for ages.

I stayed very lucky for about 20 years, never really falling off, but the luck sort of ran out around 2021 and I had a series of nasty falls. I think I 'fell off' (read: unceremoniously dumped like a sack of $hit) 4 times in about 2 months. It has changed me as a rider, I now register the dangers of it, I no longer get on anything just for the fun and I carefully consider my actions... as we all should! I was ready to jack it in before I found my current lovely, safe boy.

I have no doubt you'll ride again, just give yourself time.

 

[greenbean10]

I am so sorry this happened to you, it sounds so traumatic.

I find even coming off and not hurting myself makes me lose confidence and doubt whether I should be riding at all, so it’s no surprise that you are feeling so terrible after such a huge trauma!

As others have said, give yourself time to focus on healing and forget about the horses. It’s still so raw and recent!

Were you wearing an air jacket or back protector when you fell? If not then I’d invest in both of these to give you some confidence when you get back on - but as I said I wouldn’t even be thinking about that yet!

Sending lots of love

 

[Vodkagirly]

I'm a massive over thinker at the best of times, so this is such a struggle at the moment! At what stage did you start physio? I haven't been referred for any physio other than the session I had while in hospital so they could check I could get about on crutches and go up and down stairs. I have a follow up with the surgeon next month so I'll ask him about a referral, I just don't want to miss out on anything that will help me heal, so unsure whether to speak to my GP sooner than that.

I couldn't get a GPS appointment. I couldn't cope with A &E as couldn't sit and all the phone appointments would do is give me more codine and the online form said my symptoms were too serious to see a gp.
I had to self refer for physio and I think it was about 6 weeks in (3 week wait), there was a form on my GPS website. I was mainly about giving me exercises to do but it was very reassuring to hear that all the problems/pain was to be expected and that I was doing as well as expected.
My work paid for physio as well, I think I started that at 4.5 months. That was really useful as it was more massage based. The I had dreadful knots higher up my back that actually gave more pain than the break

 

[Vodkagirly]

Thankyou. Do you know I wasn't able to get an answer from them about how long I'd need off work?! The surgeon said 8 weeks, the I told the physio I'm a dog groomer and he said no way will I be back after 8 weeks, more likely a conservative 12 weeks but even that wasn't definite. So I'm in limbo with that as well. Riding is taking a definite back seat until at least June/July as we're away in June and I'm not going to do anything to jeopardise that! The follow up with the surgeon is meant to be 6 weeks post-surgery so hopefully I'll get more answers then.

I'm such an over thinker I find it so hard to switch off and not make plans etc, that in itself fuels my anxiety levels which is why I've done the referral for counselling.

With hind sight I think people heal at different rates. I was discharged same day and told it was a minor crack. I thought id be back at work in 2 weeks! When they xrayed again at 8 weeks it was clear it was very much not attached still!
A friend had fall and did 2 vertebrate, pelvis and lots ribs but recovered much quicker despite bring older.

 

[honetpot]

I'm not surprised you're feeling down - that was an awful accident and the "what ifs" will be going round your head

Although private physio is expensive it was critical for getting both me and my OH back to normal after back injuries (neither horse related). Could you get a sharer for your horse to help with the bills? So many physios these days just give a list of exercises whereas the treatment side - I'd call it massage but that suggests it's relaxing! - is so critical to loosening up tight muscles and relieving compensation patterns. I find the ACPAT horse physios are usually great human physios because they know hands on is so important.

I am glad you have written this. This is one time you need to scrimp on the horse, find somewhere who will perhaps loose house him with others, so the costs will be less, and get your self better, and perhaps fit to work.
I found while I was sat for hours and watching crap TV, was positivel planning, ot thinking about what you can do but thinking how perhaps you can change your business so its easier when you start back.

 

[Miggy99]

I am glad you have written this. This is one time you need to scrimp on the horse, find somewhere who will perhaps loose house him with others, so the costs will be less, and get your self better, and perhaps fit to work.
I found while I was sat for hours and watching crap TV, was positivel planning, ot thinking about what you can do but thinking how perhaps you can change your business so its easier when you start back.

We’ve not long moved yard so it would be unfair to move him again. Plus with being unable to drive or move about effectively I’m not in any state to be able to go and check on him. Unfortunately my job is my job, there is nothing else I can do other than hope they will allow me a period of phased return until I can work “normally”

 

[Arzada]

Unfortunately my job is my job, there is nothing else I can do other than hope they will allow me a period of phased return until I can work “normally”

My GP ticked a phased return box on the return to work form. He took the advice of my employer's OT. I've just checked online and similar still applies with a wider range of health professionals able to recommend a phased return https://www.gov.uk/government/publi...note-guidance-for-employers-and-line-managers. Advice for patients and employers https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-fit-note-a-guide-for-patients-and-employees and advice for employers and line managers when they receive your fit note

 

[Miggy99]

My GP ticked a phased return box on the return to work form. He took the advice of my employer's OT. I've just checked online and similar still applies with a wider range of health professionals able to recommend a phased return https://www.gov.uk/government/publi...note-guidance-for-employers-and-line-managers. Advice for patients and employers https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-fit-note-a-guide-for-patients-and-employees and advice for employers and line managers when they receive your fit note

Yes my current sick note hasn’t got that ticked, but that’s only for 7 weeks so I’ll need another. I’m due a long term sick meeting at work within the next couple of weeks so I’ll make them aware then that I’ll need a phased return and find out how that affects my pay etc

 

[mustardsmum]

So sorry to read about your fall. Give yourself some time, it is perfectly normal to feel like this so don't be hard on yourself. Its normal to find the first few weeks scary, you are not only contending with your injury, but also in those moments where you start thinking of what ifs and finding a new normal. But it will be ok. You just need to let your body heal and the best way to do that is rest. Proper rest, but do keep moving, gently round your home. Accept offers of help, take your horses shoes off and let him have the rest of the winter off if you can, and find a sharer when you are ready.

I was in a similar situation to you, I didn't find out I had two fractures either side of my sacrum for three weeks after my fall and being ambulanced to hospital. I was sent home after five days with severe muscle and tendon damage. For some reason my fractures didn't show on the x-rays but after three weeks of barely being able to walk, they did a CT scan and the fractures were visible on either side of my sacrum. Luckily they were stable and they decided not to operate (which they said they might have done if they had found them at the beginning). I would say, along side lots of rest, make sure you have the right pain meds that keep you comfortable. If you are in pain, tell your Dr, they will try something else. Once thing I wasn't told was that pain meds make you awfully constipated, so stock up on Fybogel! No one told me this and I panicked and though my insides had stopped working, when it was just the painkillers! I was so embarrassed to say anything, so I had a very miserable week feeling scared something had gone wrong internally, when in fact it was the effect of the Naproxen on my digestive system. I basically took a few months off work, my Dr would see me every couple of weeks and just kept issuing me with a sick note, until he was happy I could return to work part time after four months. I couldn't drive or sit for long so I worked at home. I started physio, including having hyrdotherapy (hospital had a spinal unit) once the fractures and muscle damage had healed. At the time, the NHS were keen on Sports therapy and I was enrolled in my local gym where I had someone put together a plan to work alongside my physio. It worked, I did all the exercises and I really think the twice weekly physio, hydrotherapy and sports therapy got me back on my feet. I would add, I am not gym fan, so going yo gym three times a week was a bit tough! But it absolutely worked and I was back on board after nine months, and ten years later I am still riding albeit in a hitair!! I did suffer with confidence issues but the right pony and a good instructor put me back together!

For now, just take it easy, let your body heal and take each day a step at a time- a good pile of books, daytime TV, dogs or cats for cuddles and cushions to support you! Sending healing hugs xx

 

[Miggy99]

So sorry to read about your fall. Give yourself some time, it is perfectly normal to feel like this so don't be hard on yourself. Its normal to find the first few weeks scary, you are not only contending with your injury, but also in those moments where you start thinking of what ifs and finding a new normal. But it will be ok. You just need to let your body heal and the best way to do that is rest. Proper rest, but do keep moving, gently round your home. Accept offers of help, take your horses shoes off and let him have the rest of the winter off if you can, and find a sharer when you are ready.

I was in a similar situation to you, I didn't find out I had two fractures either side of my sacrum for three weeks after my fall and being ambulanced to hospital. I was sent home after five days with severe muscle and tendon damage. For some reason my fractures didn't show on the x-rays but after three weeks of barely being able to walk, they did a CT scan and the fractures were visible on either side of my sacrum. Luckily they were stable and they decided not to operate (which they said they might have done if they had found them at the beginning). I would say, along side lots of rest, make sure you have the right pain meds that keep you comfortable. If you are in pain, tell your Dr, they will try something else. Once thing I wasn't told was that pain meds make you awfully constipated, so stock up on Fybogel! No one told me this and I panicked and though my insides had stopped working, when it was just the painkillers! I was so embarrassed to say anything, so I had a very miserable week feeling scared something had gone wrong internally, when in fact it was the effect of the Naproxen on my digestive system. I basically took a few months off work, my Dr would see me every couple of weeks and just kept issuing me with a sick note, until he was happy I could return to work part time after four months. I couldn't drive or sit for long so I worked at home. I started physio, including having hyrdotherapy (hospital had a spinal unit) once the fractures and muscle damage had healed. At the time, the NHS were keen on Sports therapy and I was enrolled in my local gym where I had someone put together a plan to work alongside my physio. It worked, I did all the exercises and I really think the twice weekly physio, hydrotherapy and sports therapy got me back on my feet. I would add, I am not gym fan, so going yo gym three times a week was a bit tough! But it absolutely worked and I was back on board after nine months, and ten years later I am still riding albeit in a hitair!! I did suffer with confidence issues but the right pony and a good instructor put me back together!

For now, just take it easy, let your body heal and take each day a step at a time- a good pile of books, daytime TV, dogs or cats for cuddles and cushions to support you! Sending healing hugs xx

I’m resting a lot which is so boring, but the nurse who checked my wound was shocked how high my pain threshold is and gave me strict instructions that I mustn’t do much because I probably won’t feel the warning signs that I’ve overdone it! Yes the codeine and oxycodone played havoc with me and I wasn’t able “to go” for 11 days I’ve come off them now and just taking paracetamol and ibuprofen when I wake up and before bed, although I have some tramadol here for my normal back pain so can take them if I need an extra boost!
Tarka is barefoot so no shoes to worry about. I’ve just offered someone at the yard to ride him a bit over winter if she wants, waiting for a reply from her, but then I’ll look to loan him in the spring I think which will help financially as well as give him something to do, he does love his work!
I’m having plenty of dog cuddles and have a book on the go on kindle at the moment as well although I’ll buy some proper books after Christmas!
I’ll look into as much therapy as I can get when I get the go ahead from the surgeon x

 

[Fjord]

I'm so sorry you've been through such a traumatic injury. I haven't got any useful advice, just to be kind to yourself and take thi hs slowly. Gentle hugs x

 

[4Hoofed]

My bucket is definitely overflowing right now!

How long did it take you to bet back on after your fall? I think I'll give him the rest of the winter off, then I'm hoping one of the other girls at the yard will give me a hand with groundwork (assuming I'll be capable of lunging/long reining by March). Once he's done a few weeks on the ground I may well look for a part or full loaner for him. I haven't ruled out selling him, but I don't want to rush into that decision, because I won't be getting another so I need to be 100% sure before I do anything permanent.

Honestly I think a massive part of life and staying healthy mentally is being able to say my bucket is overflowing and stepping back, and emptying it. Obviously right now there is still a lot of water pouring into the bucket still so I would really advise making sure you take a few minutes a few times a day to check in with yourself, and ground yourself.

I wasn’t diagnosed for a month so actually rode as normal for that time, for a saddle fitting, uni lessons but could not SIT down on a chair. Best my horse ever went as I was very light in the seat. A doctor misdiagnosed me a few days after with bruising, and a trauma induced kidney infection so I was very lucky. After diagnosed no riding for 3 months, but I wasn’t a surgery candidate as already partly healed. Take your time and listen to your body. Horse wise you know what is right for you and your horse! But defo talk about counselling or private therapist, I wish I had I didn’t realise how much it effected me till long after the fact and wish I’d had more of a push to look at how it effected my mind rather then my body. And don’t make any decisions until you’ve had time and are in a better head space first.

It’s soo hard I’m off work in limbo with a shoulder issue at them moments. Honestly try stay in a routine of waking up, changing room etc to keep some semblance of normalcy is my best advice otherwise I think it throws you about even more. feel free to PM if you want a chat or cheerleader.

Edited to correct naughty word

 

[Miggy99]

Honestly I think a massive part of life and staying healthy mentally is being able to say my bucket is overflowing and stepping back, and emptying it. Obviously right now there is still a lot of water pouring into the bucket still so I would really advise making sure you take a few minutes a few times a day to check in with yourself, and ground yourself.

I wasn’t diagnosed for a month so actually rode as normal for that time, for a saddle fitting, uni lessons but could not shit down on a chair. Best my horse ever went as I was very light in the seat. A doctor misdiagnosed me a few days after with bruising, and a trauma induced kidney infection so I was very lucky. After diagnosed no riding for 3 months, but I wasn’t a surgery candidate as already partly healed. Take your time and listen to your body. Horse wise you know what is right for you and your horse! But defo talk about counselling or private therapist, I wish I had I didn’t realise how much it effected me till long after the fact and wish I’d had more of a push to look at how it effected my mind rather then my body. And don’t make any decisions until you’ve had time and are in a better head space first.

It’s soo hard I’m off work in limbo with a shoulder issue at them moments. Honestly try stay in a routine of waking up, changing room etc to keep some semblance of normalcy is my best advice otherwise I think it throws you about even more. feel free to PM if you want a chat or cheerleader.

I have a meditation app on my phone so really need to take the time to do that a few times a day. I’m trying to stay in a routine of getting up in the morning rather than lying in and going to bed no earlier than 10pm. I’m hoping to get out with my husband and one of the dogs tomorrow for a walk to get some fresh air. Also hoping I’ll be able to go down to the yard to give Tarka a kiss before Christmas!
Oh I hope your shoulder is better soon

 

[Jim bob]

I think it's awful they didn't even x-ray after a fall from a horse!
I had a CT scan as soon as I was brought in. And incidentally, my fracture site (L2) wasn't particularly painful to touch but I had the most horrific pain in my pelvis, it felt like my pelvis had been crushed instead.

I got chucked off on Friday , I always wear my air jacket when I ride now so no major injuries although I think I've broken a finger !
If you ride horses , you may well fall off occasionally. My horse took off in canter and took me by surprise.

Given your surgeries, I'd say that trying to ride before next summer is probably too soon. Even without surgeries I waited for nearly 6 months

Try not to decide on what your riding future looks like now , just focus on rest and physio and take it each day at a time

If you do want to ride again one day ,I'd definitely recommend an air jacket though

I am shock they didnt x ray.
I walked into minors after coming off the boy. Was concussed so got Checked out. 15 mins later after a Bit of prodding and poking. I am Flat on my back in resus been log rolled, having ecg done and ultra sound.

After that i turned up another Fall of the boy. Placed on a Spinal board straight through to CT

 

[HorsesRule2009]

I just want to say you will get there and feel like you again.
I had a very similar accident 14years ago.
I was having a jumping lesson and fell of my mare on the flat .
I was very lucky as my instructor realised nearly straight away I had badly injured myself.
I landed on my heels and then fell to the floor, as I tried to stand I collapsed and my whole body went into spasm I couldn't move.
Luckily I wad placed on a spinal board and strapped to it until xray.
I had an unstable complete brake of my T12, it was operated on (eventually) and pinned/ cemented the same as yours to the vertebrae above and below.

I has my accident in the November. Its incredibly difficult to do 'nothing' at home but try as hard as you can to do so and try to relax and enjoy the quiet time. Use the time to watch your favourite TV programmes/box sets etc or read the books you've not had time for.

I was a groom at the time, working for my instructor at the place I had my accident. Luckily they looked after my mare and my poor brother looked after my elderly pony for me at her yard with the help of the other liveries there to bring in/turnout.

Due to my very physical job I had 6 months off work, I don't remember having alot of physio and definitely nothing for at least the first 6-8 weeks.

At around the 4/5 month mark I started doing my elderly pony myself to try and build some fitness back up and by 5 1/2 months started doing a few hrs at the yard I worked at as a 'phased' return although this was initiated by me not the doctors they were willing to just sign me off fit for work but I an my boss knew I needed to build strength.

At just over 6 months I got back on my mare with a friend on a lunge line leading me around. There's no shame in this! It was a massive accident and a very scary place to be after my injury, this helped my confidence and we I rode like this the first 3/4 times before going alone.
We took it steady as she'd also had 6months off so needed fitting as well.
Unfortunately she spent nearly that long in her stable as absolutely HATED! turnout in winter.

I went to fracture clinic multiple times at certain intervals to check healing, and asked as many questions as I could.
I has the same 'physio' before initially leaving hospital as had ti be able to navigate stairs etc to be sent home.
Before my operation finally happened- it was cancelled at least 3 times due to emergencies coming in taking priority I spent 4/5 days completely flat on my back, and being log rolled every few hours, I had vertigo when I first stood and spewed every and has to lay back down.

14years on I have done more with my riding than before but did take things very slowly to begin with and allowed myself to be nervous/ anxious as due to the type of injury it could have been an entirely different out come and mentally I struggled with that for a while.

I do suffer back pain but not at the surgery site unless very cold and the rods/around them ache. My back pain is lower back but probably due to so many years mucking out for a living.

Just look after yourself take it very easy and don't rush. You will get back to normal even if future normal is different to before.

 

[Miggy99]

I am shock they didnt x ray.
I walked into minors after coming off the boy. Was concussed so got Checked out. 15 mins later after a Bit of prodding and poking. I am Flat on my back in resus been log rolled, having ecg done and ultra sound.

After that i turned up another Fall of the boy. Placed on a Spinal board straight through to CT

Yeah I’m a bit annoyed to be honest as it could well have caused more damage making me sit up without knowing what was going on. They just went by the fact that I was feeling the pain around my flanks and assumed it was muscular Thank god it felt weird when she checked my spine again while I was sitting or who knows what would’ve happened

 

[Miggy99]

I just want to say you will get there and feel like you again.
I had a very similar accident 14years ago.
I was having a jumping lesson and fell of my mare on the flat .
I was very lucky as my instructor realised nearly straight away I had badly injured myself.
I landed on my heels and then fell to the floor, as I tried to stand I collapsed and my whole body went into spasm I couldn't move.
Luckily I wad placed on a spinal board and strapped to it until xray.
I had an unstable complete brake of my T12, it was operated on (eventually) and pinned/ cemented the same as yours to the vertebrae above and below.

I has my accident in the November. Its incredibly difficult to do 'nothing' at home but try as hard as you can to do so and try to relax and enjoy the quiet time. Use the time to watch your favourite TV programmes/box sets etc or read the books you've not had time for.

I was a groom at the time, working for my instructor at the place I had my accident. Luckily they looked after my mare and my poor brother looked after my elderly pony for me at her yard with the help of the other liveries there to bring in/turnout.

Due to my very physical job I had 6 months off work, I don't remember having alot of physio and definitely nothing for at least the first 6-8 weeks.

At around the 4/5 month mark I started doing my elderly pony myself to try and build some fitness back up and by 5 1/2 months started doing a few hrs at the yard I worked at as a 'phased' return although this was initiated by me not the doctors they were willing to just sign me off fit for work but I an my boss knew I needed to build strength.

At just over 6 months I got back on my mare with a friend on a lunge line leading me around. There's no shame in this! It was a massive accident and a very scary place to be after my injury, this helped my confidence and we I rode like this the first 3/4 times before going alone.
We took it steady as she'd also had 6months off so needed fitting as well.
Unfortunately she spent nearly that long in her stable as absolutely HATED! turnout in winter.

I went to fracture clinic multiple times at certain intervals to check healing, and asked as many questions as I could.
I has the same 'physio' before initially leaving hospital as had ti be able to navigate stairs etc to be sent home.
Before my operation finally happened- it was cancelled at least 3 times due to emergencies coming in taking priority I spent 4/5 days completely flat on my back, and being log rolled every few hours, I had vertigo when I first stood and spewed every and has to lay back down.

14years on I have done more with my riding than before but did take things very slowly to begin with and allowed myself to be nervous/ anxious as due to the type of injury it could have been an entirely different out come and mentally I struggled with that for a while.

I do suffer back pain but not at the surgery site unless very cold and the rods/around them ache. My back pain is lower back but probably due to so many years mucking out for a living.

Just look after yourself take it very easy and don't rush. You will get back to normal even if future normal is different to before.

That sounds horrible, so lucky you had your instructor with you. This time of year especially is hard to do nothing. If it had happened in the summer I could at least have got a comfy chair to sit outside in the sun, but instead I'm tucked up indoors in my dressing gown under a sleeping bag on the sofa
I'm hoping to get back to work at about 12-13 weeks, hopefully they'll make allowances and let me take my time so I don't overdo it. Sounds like your instructor/boss was understanding which is so nice.
I can imagine that first ride back was terrifying even on a lunge line. I think if I get back on I'll be paranoid something will happen and I'll be let go of, which is why I'm hoping someone at the yard will be prepared to exercise him a bit over the winter and then I'll part loan him in 2-3 months to get him working a bit more before I decide whether to get back on or not.
The physio in hospital is pretty dire isn't it. I get that we need to be able to get around and up/down stairs, but you'd think there's be a bit more to it than that when you've basically broken your back and aren't having a follow up for 6 weeks!
I was initially log rolled at my local hospital, then the 2nd opinion decided I shouldn't be operated on so they fitted a brace and taught me how to roll myself and said I could sit up to whatever degree was comfortable. Then half an hour later someone came in to say they had a 3rd opinion and I was being transferred to another hospital 2+ hours away for surgery. The nurses the next morning got told off because I rolled myself while they changed the bedding, but nobody had told me any different. They then decided "Oh no now that you're having surgery you have to lie flat again and be log rolled"! I was put in the ambulance around 2pm on the Wednesday (accident was the Monday), and was in surgery prep at 9.30am Thursday!
I really hope I can get back to riding, but it's going to be a battle with my emotions and I know my family would be much happier if I didn't!

 

[Fransurrey]

I think it's awful they didn't even x-ray after a fall from a horse!

I came off badly in 2007 and needed an ambulance as I also couldn't move. I was left to rot for 5 hours in Bournemouth A&E and needed morphine just to sit up after that. They literally then handed me a prescription for tramadol, diazepam plus crutches and sent me on my way. Barely an examination.

Miggy, you've had rotten luck and it's just 'one of those things'. Losing a stirrup instantly makes you much more likely to come off, so I certainly wouldn't dwell on whether this makes you any worse a rider! Are you up for swimming at all, to gently get the back mobilised? I second finding a private physio if you can. I'd also investigate back jacks. I've just tried searching for them and wonder if they went bust as the website doesn't work, but they were marketed by KC La Pierre (Institute of equine Podiatry). Basically a comfy cycle seat with a waist harness to hold the seat against your rear, meaning you could walk around and sit down whenever you needed to (It was designed for farriers with bad backs, but would be perfect for dog grooming). Probably wouldn't take much to make one with the correct tools.