Sundial, as Sam mentioned, knee pads might be for you! I used knee pads when I was learning technical riding and knew that I was being held back, the pads gave me some confidence. I don't use them much anymore unless we are doing primarily downhilling. Also, I don't clip in on sections that I'm tentative about, it makes me feel like I'll have a quicker reaction time to catch myself if I fall.

Don't be afraid to wear pads, at first I didn't think I was "allowed" to wear them since I wasn't bad ***. But I got over that quickly after seeing how much they helped me.

I think it's great you're still getting out there after your crash, baby steps.

And yes, momentum is your friend!!!!! Three most important lessons I learned; keep your butt back, keep your eyes ahead of you (not in front of you), and momentum is your friend!