Hi Lizzie
I used to ride as a kid, however I didn't ride as serious as you...
I was sent airboune and cleared the jump, on a horses refusal at it ... ended up hurting my back on the bar.
Sounds like you've pulled or torn a muscle, or even trapped a nerve, are you getting any pains down the back of your legs?
It's best to get this seen by your doctor..... and get refered to a back specialist at a hospital.
A doctor will prescibe anti-inflamatory and pain killers if needed, which does relieve the pain , but doesn't cure the problem.
Last year I had a disc removed from my spine, and still seeking further treatment .... so get it seen to sooner rather than later.
Do you still ride? as I know you have to protect your back (as it is with you thoughout life) have you considered using a 'girdle' back support whilst training to give your back the support you need, also, underneath your joppers, make sure you wear knee supports as well, as these are the joints that will also suffer whilst riding. Also do gentle floor excersises to strengthen your back and stomach muscles, as these muscles protect your back..... before getting on a horse, like doing arobics, or any work out, you need to warm up first.
Doing 'sitting trot' doesn't do the back any good if you bump back down in the saddle to hard.
Hope you feel better soon, and get that back well rested before you get back on your tall friend.
Angie (The Ginger 1)

Hey there Angie, many thanks for your speedy reply. Yes, a friend suggested it might be a trapped nerve, recently. I am just curious whether all that training in the past has had a permanent affect on my back/posture now. I'm sorry to hear of your accident...hope you are okay and that it hasn't put you off!
I don't really ride much nowadays to be honest, as I live in London and the schools simply aren't up to much. I used to wear a back protector for eventing and showjumping, but not for dressage.
Many thanks for your help and advice,again, much appreciated.
Take care
xL

Hi Lizzie

No problems ..... if it is a trapped nerve then to rest it up, but make sure you keep it mobile, as it could seize up altogether, gentle walking, floor exercises etc, no heavy lifting or disco dancing for you my friend .... if you're worried about it though, go to a doctor, and get it checked out, however, a good warm - hot bath, and a nerofen (if you are not allergic to them) will help. Nerofen and tablets like that, reduce any swelling, whilst a bath relaxes the muscles surrounding the nerves.
Give it a go, take it easy, and try not to stress yourself out ... that causes pain too you know ...

I don't think the horse riding did any damage, however, sitting with a straight posture, whilst riding with no stirrups sounds like a lot of strain of the lower back nerves and muscles.

Keep smiling babe

Angie

Hi Angie, great profile pic - I have a similar fluffy jacket, in pink! Thanks again, wise words indeed. Well, it comes and goes, it is okay at the moment, though I am dosing up on Neurofen. I must admit, I tend to burn the candle at both ends at times and am finding the prospect of resting up this weekend quite difficult but rest up I will haha. it's funny isn't it, we don't really give the back a second thought until it starts to give gyp. Should really be taught about preventative stuff at school or something, really. Yes, I do reckon that my training in the past has adversely affected my back now, when I think about it, it seems logical. Really appreciate your thoughts on this. Have a great weekend!

Hi Lizzie - you too have a good weekend ..... don't forget, if you drink this weekend, try not to spill it LOL ...... you can rest and have fun too .... depends what you're up to tho ... I've added you to my contacts list, so if you ever need a chat, feeling down, or just to say Hi... I'm here ..

Angie

Hi Angie,
cool. Will add you too. you have a good weekend, and feel free to message me too, if you fancy a chat or whatever
.All the best
x