> Does anyone else have this problem? What can I do to solve my > ankle/knee fatigue?
I find that as I get in better shape, it becomes less of a problem. I
also find that it is much worse if I don't change gaits periodically.
The cloud stirrups may be too wide (allow ankle to turn until you
strengthen your muscles/tendons). Can you try padding the sides to
confine the foot in poosition without becoming a death trap? Some folks
are more comfortable if the stirrup tread is angled so that it is low on
the inside & higher on the outside.
Are you in a balanced position? I find that my knees ache if my legs
get in front of me at all. Stirrups place a part here, too.
Have a GOOD shoe fitter or podiatrist look at your feet & stance. You
may pronate when on the ground & in the saddle (that is - standing
slightly on the inside edge of your feet - you would be out of alignment
when riding).
You may also try getting off and walking periodically (in endurance) to
give you & the horse a break.
I hope that some of this may help. I have exceptionally weak ankles
after 2 severe sprains, and I only have part of the mediocollateral
ligaments left in each knee, thanks to skiing accidents. I probably
won't ever ride another 100 with my knees, but I do ok at 50's! At
about 30 miles, I hit a point where it all aches, but I work through it
in about 5-10 miles.
Linda Flemmer
Bruceton Mills, WV
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