Why Does Horseback Riding Become More Painful With Age?

A Physiological Breakdown of The Pain You Have In The Saddle

Decreased Muscle Mass & Fat Padding
With age, there’s a natural decline in gluteal and pelvic floor muscle tone, along with the subcutaneous fat that once acted as padding. This leaves your sit bones (ischial tuberosities) and other bony structures more exposed to saddle pressure and impact, leading to chronic saddle soreness.
Spinal Compression and Lower Back Pain
The lumbar discs between vertebrae begin to dehydrate and compress with age. Horseback riding, especially at trot and canter, places repetitive vertical pressure through the spine, exacerbating lower back pain from riding and even sacroiliac joint pain.
Reduced Tissue Elasticity
Ligaments and fascia lose flexibility over time, which reduces your ability to absorb the horse's motion and increases the risk of nerve impingement, inflammation, and pain in the inner thigh or lower back while riding.
Pelvic Floor Sensitivity
Especially for women and post-menopausal riders, the pelvic floor becomes thinner and more vulnerable to saddle friction and direct pressure, resulting in perineal pain, numbness, or burning sensations during or after riding.
Joint Degeneration
Degenerative joint conditions like osteoarthritis in the hips or SI joint dysfunction can make it painful to maintain proper riding posture, contributing to hip pain while riding and difficulty mounting or dismounting.

What Riders Commonly Try and Why It Often Doesn’t Work
- Custom saddles or padding solutions
- Painkillers or NSAIDs
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Sheepskin saddle covers
Introducing Chevaroo’s Comfort Solutions
Chevaroo™ Padded Equestrian Underwear
✅ 3D Contoured Gel Padding
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Padding is placed in the right spots to protect your seat bones and tailbone
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Soaks up the bumps and jolts from trotting, cantering, and galloping
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Reduces pressure and discomfort in sensitive areas
✅ Breathable, Odor-Resistant Fabric
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Keeps you dry and fresh, even on long or hot rides
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Soft materials and smooth seams help prevent rubbing and skin irritation
✅ Discreet, Comfortable Fit
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Stretches to move with your body and fits under any riding pants
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No bulges or lines, perfect for both daily rides and competitions
Especially good for riders who:
- Are you experiencing pelvic sensitivity, saddle soreness, or nerve pain
- Want a non-invasive, affordable solution without altering tack
- Ride for extended periods or in hot climates
Chevaroo™ Soft Equestrian Seat Pad
✅ Smart, Supportive Design
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Spreads your weight evenly across the saddle for better comfort
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Takes pressure off your lower back, tailbone, and sensitive areas
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Works with all types of saddles: English, Western, Dressage, and Jumping
✅ Great for Recovery & Ongoing Pain
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Ideal if you're healing from surgery or have lower back or hip issues
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Also perfect for shared or lesson horses with multiple riders
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One size fits all, just place it on your saddle, attach the straps and ready with instant cushioning
