I herniated or ruptured a lower lumbar disc this last summer. (L4-L5). The ruptured "jelly" is now putting pressure on my spinal cord. I am not in excrutiating pain (some sciatica and more soarness), but don't have a lot of feeling on my right side from the back of my calf through the right side of the foot. The spinal doctor that I seen has advised to hold off on surgery as long as possible, so at this point, I am just dealing with the situation. I am looking for advice from anyone that is or has dealt with a similar situation. Anything from gear to pain relief. I usually take 1-2 long weekend backpacking trips a summer in the Rockies. I also do a lot of day hiking..if possible. I am able to cart around my 4 year and 1 year old girls in a kid pack without much trouble. Thanks for the advice in advance!

Ty