How soon can you ride after surgery

Hi ! I am scheduled to have Lap Band surgery on January 10 in Boston, MA. As a horse owner and rider, one of the reasons for this surgery , how soon is it to ride again. I not talking full training, but walk maybe for 10-15 minutes, trot, etc. thanks.

Ann, I rode the week after my surgery...just bareback down to open the gate to let our cattle in every night. Granted, this is my Arab show mare and she has impeccable manners and is very well trained. (I ride her bridleless and bareback normally to do this chore, lol) We didn't start full training again until last Monday...I was 4 weeks out and not in any pain. I just try not to let myself get too tired. I think my mare was enjoying her holiday...DH did the gate chore with her the week of my surgery but other than that she didn't get ridden. You know your body and your horse better than anyone...if you feel safe and your doctor agrees I say "go for it!!" Good luck with your surgery! Lori

Hi Lori, Hope your surgery went well. I want to lose some more weight before I ride, because of balance, and it just depends on how overweight you are. I was two hundred lbs overweight and still need another hundred to go, so it is all up to the individual. Jeannie

I had surgery on 9/21/04. I was told by my Dr. that I could ride safely after 3 weeks. I actually waited a couple of more weeks because I wanted to lose more weight. The first time I rode again I had lost about 30 pounds and it felt so much better. My balance had improved already. I have lost 57 pounds now and things are really starting to work for me and my horse. He really appreciates what I did for him!!! I do a lot of strenuous riding because I live in the Sierra's. I did not ride him for over 6 months because I was just to heavy and it was hard on him. I am looking forward to riding in the spring and should almost be at goal weight (135) by then I hope. Have fun riding again. You will be so happy.

Hi Ann. I was told to wait 2 weeks, (I had Lap RNY), before doing any exercise other than easy walking, and to wait 6 weeks before any serious AB work. Since I ride Western, I couldn't lift my saddle for 4-6 weeks. But I did climb on my horses and ride them bareback at 2-3 weeks with no problems. Best of luck to you. Life after surgery and weight loss is so good! My horse has been so responsive to me! I noticed a huge change in just 30-40 pounds, but since losing 165 my riding has taken on a whole new dimension. May the horse be with you! Ruthanne