J.,

I can offer you some encouragement.

Several years ago I herniated a disc in my lower back...twice over a 3 month period.

Lotta pain. Couldn't walk more than a few feet.

I took a year off backpacking and did my physical therapy (pt) exercises as I was instructed.

I'm backpacking as much as I like now.

I use a frame pack that carries all the load on my hips, below the damaged disc.

I do the pt exercises daily and plan to do so for life. I'm 69.

I've also had some neck disc problems for 30+ years.

No surgeries so far.

I have had to learn how to move more carefully.