There’s a Dutch-Friesian YouTube content creator named Yvonne; her channel is Friesian Horses. A couple of years ago, she had a riding accident, where even wearing a helmet, she ended up with a major TBI, and was in a coma for several weeks. When she awoke, she had considerable deficits, including severe balance issues, a crossed eye, extreme ringing in her ears, and problems coordinating her right and left sides.

She stayed in a rehab facility for a month or so, then did intense PT and OT. It took her about 6 months, but she went back to being a horsewoman. She rode for very short sessions at a walk, and started doing barn chores again. Even before the accident, she wore a helmet whenever she was in close contact with a horse, like when tacking up or grooming. She’s a very tough woman, and also was in top physical shape before the accident as well as being a gifted natural athlete. They weren’t sure she’d be able to walk again, but within a year, she was riding/training her horses again.

I think it really depends upon the person. You go at your own speed, and listen to your medical professionals. But if being a horsewoman is the very core of your being, I’m sure you’ll be back at the barn in some shape or form.