Bad back and backpack choice

[VAspeedgoat]

I know this topic has been done before but I have a different spin I was considering. I have some nerve damage that was done by some compressed lumbar vertibrae and had some issues in my lower legs because of it. I'm working through it slowly and am much better than I was two years ago. The issue I run into now on a long hike, is it seems like fatigue will set in and I can't seem to stabilize my back with my core. Then the pain will come back as well as stability issues in my right leg. I honestly am proud that I have this problem because at one time I felt like I was never gonna hike again.

So here is the question for those with experience or an opinion. I am thinking if I wear a decent pack the waist belt will help stabilize my back. I figure this is a no brainier. But would a pack with some sort of frame, or plastic sheet frame, help as well. I have a MR pop up 28 and have found a used scapegoat 25 that would both fit my parameters. I have also looked at the coulee 25 as well. For comfort while hiking I would assume the frameless or lighter frames would be more comfortable. But curious if anyone thought the stiffer frame of the pop up would be beneficial. Wish they still made the pop up 18. I probably would've just gotten it.

 

[2rocky]

Can you talk to a Sports focused Chiro or PT who can look at the way your body handles the force of the extra weight?

I say that specific professional because a "doctor" tends to be "Anti-use" while someone who works on athletes tends to realize you have to work around injuries.

 

[VAspeedgoat]

Can you talk to a Sports focused Chiro or PT who can look at the way your body handles the force of the extra weight?

I say that specific professional because a "doctor" tends to be "Anti-use" while someone who works on athletes tends to realize you have to work around injuries.

That's a really good idea. Since covid hit, I hadn't been going but was going to start again. My chiro is highly affiliated with a local university sports department. Not sure why I didn't think about that.

 

[huronmtns]

I know this topic has been done before but I have a different spin I was considering. I have some nerve damage that was done by some compressed lumbar vertibrae and had some issues in my lower legs because of it. I'm working through it slowly and am much better than I was two years ago. The issue I run into now on a long hike, is it seems like fatigue will set in and I can't seem to stabilize my back with my core. Then the pain will come back as well as stability issues in my right leg. I honestly am proud that I have this problem because at one time I felt like I was never gonna hike again.

So here is the question for those with experience or an opinion. I am thinking if I wear a decent pack the waist belt will help stabilize my back. I figure this is a no brainier. But would a pack with some sort of frame, or plastic sheet frame, help as well. I have a MR pop up 28 and have found a used scapegoat 25 that would both fit my parameters. I have also looked at the coulee 25 as well. For comfort while hiking I would assume the frameless or lighter frames would be more comfortable. But curious if anyone thought the stiffer frame of the pop up would be beneficial. Wish they still made the pop up 18. I probably would've just gotten it.

I'm not sure what levels of your spine were injured and what type of injury you had\have. I guessing lower lumbar spine(L4 to S1). A proper fitment with the stiffer frame pack may be your best route to reduce compression of the injury site. A waist belt and stiff frame combination reduces the weight on the spine and shoulders and transfers some of that weight to the hips through the ilium and sacrum. This is just a basic cloudy answer based on your description of compressed vertebrae. The vertebrae is the bone element in your spine. The intervetebral disc (cartilage fiber) that lies between the bony vertebrae can cause compression too. There are many specifics based on the location and type of your injury that really is needed to answer your question. Aggravation can cause swelling around the nerve so if your injury has limited space this may be what you are experiencing. There are a lot of complexities that even a surgeon would take a lot of time to explain on an individual basis. Please go see your doctor for a solid answer. Hearing that you have improved over the last two years is good news. Nerve damage is a slow healing process.

 

[VAspeedgoat]

It is a lumbar compression and I'm sorry, I didn't explain that it is a disc issue. Yes as you've said as I do things to aggravate it there is swelling. My chiro is suspecting that when I have accute pain it is a mild rupture. At this time I would rather stay with him vs a surgeon. Surgery isn't a guarantee and so far I've seen steady improvement.

As an aside, I made an appointment for Thursday and will get his opinion.

Please feel free if anyone has an opinion or experience.

 

[ScottP]

As someone with bulging lumbar discs (L4-5 region), facet arthritis and nerve issues (pain), I would much rather have the weight of a backpack load be distributed to my hips. IMO, this is difficult to achieve on most light duty packs, especially if you are taller or have a long torso. You need to be able to engage the load lifters and have some sort of frame structure that is attached to the waist belt to shift load off your shoulders (and less force on your spine). 10lbs in one pack can feel like 30 in another. You'll want to try on packs and find one with proper fit for you. For example, I can't carry my 4 year old on my shoulders very long before it irritates my back, but I can carry 35lbs in my hunting pack (SG x-curve w/solo) all day without issue.

I would certainly consult with your Dr, PT, etc. to make sure your desired level of activity is safe for your injury. You need to keep moving, but adding weight to your upper torso also challenges your core, and you need to build up to that. I really need to have inflammation and the shooting pain greatly reduced before carrying a weighted pack.

I'm subscribed to a lifetime of core exercises and stretching to try and ease the pain caused by all the damage from improper use of my back and a computer-based job. My doctor/surgeon said that was my best hope in avoiding surgery....

Best of luck to you.

 

[amo16]

I've herniated 3 discs in my lower back and gone through surgery, etc. Make sure the weight is off your shoulders. I'd personally avoid all the packs you listed and look at the Cabinet, Pintler and Sawtooth if you're set on Mystery Ranch. Were it me, I'd look at SG, Kifaru, Exo as well and find the frame that works best for you and make your decision based on that. I've got packs from MR, SG and Kifaru and have tried Exo. For me the Kifaru is miles ahead of the others in terms of putting the load on your hips.

 

[GlockZ]

I would do as some have suggested, talk to a sports doctor, who will work with you to determine the best route to take. As a side note, I had a co-worker, (recently forced to retire, and go on permanent disability), who has been battling back issues for a few years now. He has had multiple back surgeries over the last 3 years,(all done by reputable surgeons/specialists), each time to repair what went wrong with the last. He originally had surgery to fuse some vertebrae to repair a bulging disc issue that wouldn't heal. He was an avid hunter and angler, but now mostly confined to a chair, unable to do much. So for what it's worth, avoid having surgery. Good luck, I hope you're able to find a solution.

 

[Toofdoc]

So here is my 2 cents.

I have had plenty of back,right leg and hip issues for years from work ...or so I thought. On a day off from work I went to The Good Feet store and got fitted for arch supports. I’m only 12 days into wearing them and let me tell you how amazing my back feels! I cancelled my appointment at the Mayo Clinic to have my back/hip/leg looked at.

These aren’t your otc insoles but are made to fit your specic arch which affects your gait/walk. It all starts from the ground-up. My body is now properly aligned and pain is gone!

You have several Good Feet stores in VA. I highly recommend you check it out before any surgery or fancy back back that may not have anything to do with your pain.

 

[Ledanek]

I know this topic has been done before but I have a different spin I was considering. I have some nerve damage that was done by some compressed lumbar vertibrae and had some issues in my lower legs because of it. I'm working through it slowly and am much better than I was two years ago. The issue I run into now on a long hike, is it seems like fatigue will set in and I can't seem to stabilize my back with my core. Then the pain will come back as well as stability issues in my right leg. I honestly am proud that I have this problem because at one time I felt like I was never gonna hike again.

So here is the question for those with experience or an opinion. I am thinking if I wear a decent pack the waist belt will help stabilize my back. I figure this is a no brainier. But would a pack with some sort of frame, or plastic sheet frame, help as well. I have a MR pop up 28 and have found a used scapegoat 25 that would both fit my parameters. I have also looked at the coulee 25 as well. For comfort while hiking I would assume the frameless or lighter frames would be more comfortable. But curious if anyone thought the stiffer frame of the pop up would be beneficial. Wish they still made the pop up 18. I probably would've just gotten it.

I have the Coulee 25 and it almost....almost replaced my Mystery Ranch 3DAP.
It's great for EDC and travelling. Fits nicely underneath the seat or overhead compartments.
Forces you to pack lightly and great for summer hikes and winter hikes.
The stretchy pockets are great for quick access for change in weather or snacks.

If daisy chains is a must, look at the Mystery Ranch Front.

Coulee 40 is great when you reaaaaallly need more space and pack can be slid down to your waist to distribute weight to hip.
Padding is generous to prevent pinching of nerves, that shoots down your leg.
If Coulee 40 is too busy, streamline to Mystery Ranch Rush

Scapegoat 25 has been in my scope for a long time, I just prefer the Y-Zip, but, read many good things about it, specially with the Scapegoat 35

I agree with the arch support. Its a game changer. See a foot specialist if your insurance covers it. I need to get another myself, though, I'm happy with those Dr Schools Arch Support that you measure yourself at stores...YMMV

See a doctor if symptoms persist.

Fellow Sciatica-Sufferer Myself and Mystery Ranch-enabler

 

[NEWHunter]

I wish you the best of luck. I ruptured my L4/L5 disc last June and I’m still trying to avoid surgery. I went with a MR Beartooth for the new belt to try and get as much of the weight on my hips as possible. I would loved to have tried SG, exo, etc but they were just too expensive for me. I’ve also kind of resigned myself to antelope and the occasional deer out west. If it’s elk, it will be with a guide who is getting paid to get it out.

 

[VAspeedgoat]

I really do appreciate all the help. I will check with my chiro/therapist and see what they say. Right now I'm really leaning toward the pop up 28 because of the aluminum internal frame design. I think it will help stabilize both the load and my upper body. I work at my core exercises but on a hike is not where I want to push things. I would rather artificially stabilize things to play it safe.

But we'll see what the expert thinks.

To all of you guys, like me, trying to avoid surgery, I wish us all luck. I only know of 2 people of about 20 that are pleased with the result. If I can stay mobile and tolerate any pain I will just keep going.

 

[MTLabrador]

I really do appreciate all the help. I will check with my chiro/therapist and see what they say. Right now I'm really leaning toward the pop up 28 because of the aluminum internal frame design. I think it will help stabilize both the load and my upper body. I work at my core exercises but on a hike is not where I want to push things. I would rather artificially stabilize things to play it safe.

But we'll see what the expert thinks.

To all of you guys, like me, trying to avoid surgery, I wish us all luck. I only know of 2 people of about 20 that are pleased with the result. If I can stay mobile and tolerate any pain I will just keep going.

Totally self serving, but it’s less expensive than a new pop up and handles weight very well.

MR Pintler/Guide Light FS

Mystery Ranch Pintler with Guide Light frame, foliage, size L, in excellent condition. I bought this pack to use as a day pack in 2018 and it has been used and hunted. Has been washed, no blood or odors. No squeaks, rips or tears. Great load carrying day or overnight pack. First post or PM gets...

www.hunttalk.com

 

[NEWHunter]

I really do appreciate all the help. I will check with my chiro/therapist and see what they say. Right now I'm really leaning toward the pop up 28 because of the aluminum internal frame design. I think it will help stabilize both the load and my upper body. I work at my core exercises but on a hike is not where I want to push things. I would rather artificially stabilize things to play it safe.

But we'll see what the expert thinks.

To all of you guys, like me, trying to avoid surgery, I wish us all luck. I only know of 2 people of about 20 that are pleased with the result. If I can stay mobile and tolerate any pain I will just keep going.

I just saw an ad on Facebook saying MR is currently 25% off at Scheels.

 

[VAspeedgoat]

Forgot to post an update. So I went to my chiro/therapist. He said he was not as worried about the pack having any sort of frame as he was the waist belt. He wanted one to help me to help activate my core and transfer weight to my hips. By activate he essentially means have something to push out against when you tighten your core muscles.

He also is going to get me some custom orthotics. He actually said he should've done this sooner. So I'm ordering a new pair of work shoes and getting the orthotics soon.

As far as pack choice, I'm still not sure. I'm still leaning towards the pop up. I would love to find a slightly used pop up 18. I may just get a new one and retire my hunting pack to hiking. I hate using the same pack because they get so sweaty during the summer.

Anyways, thanks for all the advise. I appreciated every post. Us "back guys"have to stick together.

 

[MT_Chad]

It is a lumbar compression and I'm sorry, I didn't explain that it is a disc issue. Yes as you've said as I do things to aggravate it there is swelling. My chiro is suspecting that when I have accute pain it is a mild rupture. At this time I would rather stay with him vs a surgeon. Surgery isn't a guarantee and so far I've seen steady improvement.

As an aside, I made an appointment for Thursday and will get his opinion.

Please feel free if anyone has an opinion or experience.

I would recommend finding a PT that specializes in the spine, you can search the McKenzie Institute for certified therapists in your area. This is what my wife does, she helps a lot of people with the issues you are having. The beauty of what they do is they will teach you stretching and strengthening exercises to do yourself at home, minimizing cost for you.

 

[niceshot]

I have a Stone Glacier and it works great. As unmanly as it sounds, learn to stretch. Hip Flexors and hamstrings need to be stretched regularly. I have had back injections, back surgery, countless PT sessions, personal trainer, one of those fancy beds, and just about everything one can try to get through life with a bad back. Stretching and just walking are your best bet and do it often. I'm 42 and this back has cost me a lot of money but more costly than that, it has cost me lost time in the field. Feel free to message me with any back question you may have. Unfortunately I know more than I wish I did.

 

[rbinhood]

Interesting discussion. I hurt my back about 8 weeks ago. I am now upright and walking without pain after several weeks of chiro care. I am headed to Montana in Sept. for an archery elk hunt. Am a bit concerned about having weight on my back and compression issues from the added weight. I think maybe I need to start walking with a loaded pack to see what I may be in for.
I have dealt with back issues for the last 30 years. I can put my back into place myself if it's not too far gone, but there are those occasions where only a chiro helps. Had mine go out on a backpack elk hunt in CO years ago, and wound up calling an outfitter with horses to carry my gear out. I don't want to have that happen again.
I try to stretch daily, in the morning first thing, and throughout the day. I am feeling much better now, after taking 3 hrs to get out of bed the first day after I injured my back. Knock on wood.

 

[KB_]

Hey man I have two blown out disks between my T8 and T10. I know packs can get expensive but I suffered thru cheap packs for way to long. Working with my physical therapist this year really made a difference in my flexability and being able to stay stable at odd angles. I also finally upgraded to a decent pack. I'm using a kifaru duplex light frame with the Stryker bag( bag doesnt matter for this) but that frame does a really good job of putting the weight where it is suppose to be to make you feel stable while walking. Expecially in areas that are not exactly flat. There is also not a lot of frames out there that I believe are as strong as kifaru's but I could be wrong. What im saying really is to buy a really good quality rig thats made to be able to handle weight. Mystery ranch, Stone, and Kifaru come to mind for me. All three are great, and I chose a Kifaru based off of what ive seen with others, user reviews and speakin with a rep about my issue and taking advice from multiple different brands. In my case it was been the Mystery ranch and the Kifaru as I felt they were built a bit tougher. Kifaru has a bigger lumbar pad then the mystery ranch. But If i remember correctly the belt was more padded on the MS. I needed a thicker lumbar pad and a good thick pad along the back muscles along my spine. The kifaru also has load lifters that have multiple slots for really good adjustablity. I cannot remember if the mystery ranch had that feature but I would not be surprised if they did. Good luck. I know your pain man.

 

[KB_]

Forgot to post an update. So I went to my chiro/therapist. He said he was not as worried about the pack having any sort of frame as he was the waist belt. He wanted one to help me to help activate my core and transfer weight to my hips. By activate he essentially means have something to push out against when you tighten your core muscles.

He also is going to get me some custom orthotics. He actually said he should've done this sooner. So I'm ordering a new pair of work shoes and getting the orthotics soon.

As far as pack choice, I'm still not sure. I'm still leaning towards the pop up. I would love to find a slightly used pop up 18. I may just get a new one and retire my hunting pack to hiking. I hate using the same pack because they get so sweaty during the summer.

Anyways, thanks for all the advise. I appreciated every post. Us "back guys"have to stick together.

Now that i read that part, I would take a serious look at kifaru, Mine puts the weight exactly where you are describing here. Give em a call and see what they have to say.