Hi Lonerock,

Very glad to hear that you were able to treat your back without surgery. And I hope to still be taking trips when I am your age.

It's interesting that you mention the McKenzie method. That's what the Physical Therapist prescribed for me. I'm still not completely convinced of how much my recovery is a result of the McKenzie exercises, and how much is just from time, but the exercises do seem to help some.

It's frustrating to me that I was at a high level of fitness (for me) before I hurt my back, and that it's taking so long to become symptom free. I've been fortunate to never have experienced an injury that took very long to heal.

Lonerock, I hope you do return to backpacking next summer if not sooner. You can see links to a couple of my recent trips for inspiration in the trip report forum.

Have Fun,
-Bob