[pct-l] Back Troubles and Pack Weight

[ronyon at comcast.net (Ron Smith)]

I've had the same experience. I can backpack all day with my internal
frame pack (4.5lbs) comfortably, but day-hiking with a day pack results
in a tired back.
I've been to physical therapists for my back. The last one suggested
yoga, so I've been attending yoga classes for a month. So far, I've had
much less back pain and a huge increase in flexibility.
Ron

From: "Linda Jeffers" <gottago@lindajeffers.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Back Troubles and Pack Weight 
<<<<<Therefore, I strongly suggest that you save several pounds by not
carrying a framed (whether internal or external) pack....>>>>
 
Well, there is always another side and here is mine. I too have a really
bad
back. My back problems are terrible when I'm NOT on the trail. Sitting,
standing in one position, lack of movement OR carrying any weight on my
shoulders, generates pain. Each year they get worse. I've been to way
too
many doctors over the last 10 years. None seem to know what is going on.

What I know is that I DON'T have back pain when I hike. My back feels
great.
(that's why I'm on the trail so much! Pain aversion.) But, then I know
for
me, I NEED a backpack that has a way of transferring ALL the weight to
my
hips. I need a backpack that has a good frame. Strong stays and a bypass
harness system which allows me to transfer weight from my shoulders and
a
nice big thick hip belt suit me just fine.
My pack weighs between 3.5 and 4 lbs. 
Gottago