We always loosen the cinch after a ride for a short time. Just enough to keep saddle from slipping off, but enough to relieve the pressure. That gives time for the blood to recirculate to the back. When the saddle and pad came off, you could tell if they had a hot spot, because it would be dry. Good idea to leave pad on for awhile too.
Have fun riding. I hope Rusty does well, with no "hitches".
Rusty is making me crazy:). Only one "maybe" hitch today. I'm not sure if he was kicking a fly off his leg or hitching.
But he has gotten soooooooooooo lazy. I had to stop and come get my spurs back on my boots. He drags his toes, and swings his head like a snake, chews on the bit, a whole varity of things to show he really doesn't want to be doing this. 10 minutes on him and I hurt all over. My problem is I don't really know if it's that he is being lazy, or if this is something to do with some problem. He just didn't use to move like this. I'm so frustrated with this horse I could just sit down and scream or cry:)... But I've made up my mind I will work with him for about a month 4-5 X's a week, and if I see no improvement, I'll run him to the vet. All this could just be he is out of shape.
Becky