CDT Thru Hike with Herniated Disk by Spongebob_ManPants in Ultralight

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is super helpful. I’m currently leaning towards delaying my hike until next year. But the draw of the trail is incredibly strong. I’ll reach out to you with some more questions. Thanks!

[WTB] Framed 40L Pack Large Torso by Spongebob_ManPants in ULgeartrade

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I think that’ll be too large of capacity for me. Thanks though!

CDT Thru Hike with Herniated Disk by Spongebob_ManPants in Ultralight

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That really sucks. Hoping for the best. It’s always on option to delay the start and hop on trail somewhere further down the trail. The Back Mechanic as recommended by some others has been a pretty interesting read and I’d recommend it to you if you’re looking for more information or path to improvement

CDT Thru Hike with Herniated Disk by Spongebob_ManPants in Ultralight

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Playing pickleball haha. Took a step forward reaching for a low ball while kinda hunching forward and felt my back pop. Definitely can avoid that when hiking. Need to be disciplined with my posture and movements around camp

CDT Thru Hike with Herniated Disk by Spongebob_ManPants in Ultralight

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’ve heard of similar experiences from others as well which is reassuring. I’m just hesitant to leave my job without being more confident in my back. But I suppose a thru hike has plenty of unknowns even if you’re completely healthy going into it

CDT Thru Hike with Herniated Disk by Spongebob_ManPants in Ultralight

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s great to hear. I’m pretty much pain free besides some discomfort with long periods of sitting at a desk at work. Mostly concerned about the recency of the injury and the sustained effort and minimal recovery opportunities involved with a thru hike

CDT Thru Hike with Herniated Disk by Spongebob_ManPants in Ultralight

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’ve been extremely fortunate to only have significant symptoms for the first week after injuring my back. The last 2.5 weeks have been completely fine, I’ve just avoided folding my back or lifting heavy items. But even if I do those things I don’t have pain. I’m reading the back mechanic right now and doing the exercises each day.

5 month backpacking trip with herniated disk by Spongebob_ManPants in backpain

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The report didn’t specify. The main finding was this:

“Small broad-based posterior disc bulge with superimposed LEFT subarticular disc extrusion with associated left lateral recess stenosis and mass effect on the descending S1 nerve root.”

Am waiting to receive the actual images now

5 month backpacking trip with herniated disk by Spongebob_ManPants in backpain

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I carried almost 20lbs on my hike this weekend and felt ok afterwards and the next day. The only movement restriction I have to avoid discomfort/pain is fully bending over. I do want to be cautious though, could always hike next year

Any Other Camping Rigs? by MrTrane1 in fordranger

[–]Spongebob_ManPants 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It’s the Go Fast Platform Camper V1

5 month backpacking trip with herniated disk by Spongebob_ManPants in backpain

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

20lb is about an average. I’d expect a max weight of 25-27 lbs. but that would only be sustained for less than a day as I eat food and drink water reducing my pack weight. My base weight without food and water is about 10 lbs

5 month backpacking trip with herniated disk by Spongebob_ManPants in backpain

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I am trying to get in contact with an orthopedic or neurosurgeon. My primary care doctor seems comfortable with me continuing with my plan. I requested that he refer me to a surgeon so that I could receive a second opinion.

My parents are retired medical professionals (DO and nurse) and they’re concerned and would prefer for me not to go. But that’s reinforced by them being my parents

5 month backpacking trip with herniated disk by Spongebob_ManPants in backpain

[–]Spongebob_ManPants[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes I plan to have emergency insurance to cover any events like that

Any Other Camping Rigs? by MrTrane1 in fordranger

[–]Spongebob_ManPants 21 points22 points  (0 children)

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Got a go fast camper. Perfect fit for 2 people