horses.

[blkhank]

I just had surgery Jan 6. From reading other posts my Dr. Seems very cautious.I am 50% weight bearing for 6 wks I use a walker and havent been out of the house.( which is ok) and I'm not allowed back to work till April.I'm still on pain meds.What i'd like to ask if anyone has experience with horses? I'm a mounted police officer and I have to qualifie my horse on march 24.does anyone know or think i'll be in the saddle by then? I have a feeling I'm going to have to do this without riding him at all prior. Any suggestion?

[Pat Walter]

Hi

There are a handful of people that I know have returned to riding.  I don't think any of us can tell you if you will be able to ride.  It is really up to your own body and surgeons decision. 

If you are not ready to ride, isn't there some way you can get a different day to qualify your horse or have someone do it for you. I would hope that there is some way to take care of your problem. 

I do know of a lot of policemen, firefighters, men in the service, etc that have return to full activities and service.  I know some had to pass tough test to renew or get back into action.

Each of our bodies heal with their own timeline.  There is no way to push it or predict it.  I know that is not what you want to hear - but it is the truth.

Have you asked your surgeon how quickly you can begin to ride again?  If not, I would suggest you talk to him about it.  It is obviously very important for your career.

Pat