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Pelvic Pain While Horseback Riding? Here’s What Your Body’s Trying to Tell You

  • Writer: yourtopnotchphysic
    yourtopnotchphysic
  • Jun 16
  • 2 min read


Horseback riding demands grace, strength, and precise body control. But for many riders—especially women—pelvic pain during or after riding is an unspoken struggle. If you're in the San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, or Santa Maria area and experiencing discomfort in the saddle, you're not alone—and more importantly, you don't have to live with it.


🚩 Common Pelvic Pain Symptoms Riders Experience:

  • Sharp or dull pain in the sit bones or pubic area

  • Tailbone discomfort during transitions

  • Hip or groin tension after longer rides

  • Increased bladder urgency or leakage while riding

  • Deep pressure or aching that worsens after dismounting


These are not just “normal riding pains.” They are signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, imbalanced core support, or compensations in your posture and alignment—all things that can be addressed with expert help.


💡 Why Horseback Riding Triggers Pelvic Pain


Riding engages the core, hips, and pelvic floor in a uniquely demanding way. You’re managing constant micro-adjustments, absorbing motion through your seat, and trying to stay symmetrical—even when your horse isn’t.


When your pelvic floor muscles are too tight, weak, or not coordinating properly with the rest of your body, you may experience:


  • Compression on nerves or connective tissue

  • Misalignment of the pelvis and sacrum

  • Muscle guarding that leads to chronic pain

  • Over-recruitment of hip flexors or glutes


And if you’ve had a baby, pelvic surgery, or old tailbone injuries? That creates even more opportunity for dysfunction in the saddle.


🐴 What Does Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Offer Riders?

At Top Notch Physical Therapy, we specialize in pelvic health for equestrians.

Our tailored approach includes:

Out of the saddle-specific assessment of pelvic alignment, mobility, and posture

Hands-on treatment for myofascial restrictions and scar tissue

Pelvic floor retraining for strength, relaxation, and coordination

Core and hip strengthening to create symmetry in the saddle

Education & support so you understand your body and regain control

📍 Local Care for Riders in SLO County

Whether you compete in dressage, ride trails on the weekends, or work at the barn every day, we understand your rider biomechanics—because we treat equestrians just like you across San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Atascadero, and Santa Maria.


✨ Ready to Ride Pain-Free Again?

Pelvic pain isn’t something you just “deal with.” It’s your body asking for attention—and with the right therapy, you can ride with strength, stability, and confidence again.


👉 Schedule your free discovery call with Top Notch Physical Therapy today.

📍 Located in San Luis Obispo, proudly serving the Central Coast.

📞 Call (805) 600-3525 or visit www.yourtopnotchPT.com to book your appointment.


🐎 Specialized care for riders. One-on-one. Holistic. Judgement-free.

 
 
 

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