Lower back pains when I carry backpacks?

Question

Hey

I am a teen and swim and lately, SOMETIMES, when I carry my backpack around, my lower back starts to strain. It is really bothersome, and I'm worried because in the summer, I will be going on a expedition to New Mexico, where I will need to carry a 35 lbs. backpack up mountains, and I really don't want my back hurting then...

any treatments for lower back pains? thank you!

Answer 1

You might want to make sure you were shoes with more support. You can also make sure the load is evenly distributed and wear a weight lifter's belt to ensure that you are standing up straight and not bending too much to one side.

Answer 2

I actually have the same problem with my neck and lower back-- I had to stop swimming in order to decrease some of the strain. To deal with the pain now, I get monthly treatments of botox and trigger point injections. They work fairly well for me (at least well enough not to be bedridden). Your pain, from your description, seems to come and go so it may not be necessary to get the same injections as I do. However, I still think it's a good idea to talk to your doctor nonetheless; maybe he can recommend something. For now, I would try to carry your backpack less often (if that's possible) and perhaps use the combintion of tylenol and a hot compress to dull the pain. I hope this works! Good luck with everything.

Answer 3

First I would try switching to the kind of bag you wear on your shoulder with the strap going across your chest. That might take some of the strain off your lower back. You might also want to go see a chiropractor, just to make sure you don't have any kind of misalignment in your back or anything. I know there are exercises you can do for your back too. As for the hiking, maybe invest in one of those belts that weight lifters and furniture movers wear. I'm not sure how comfortable that would be to wear while hiking, of course, so don't underestimate the power of Tylenol! Take a couple before you even pick up those 35 pounds.

Answer 4

That's the price you pay for carrying weight on your back. You're young, you could "work out" by carrying some weight on your back on a regular basis. But if the pain persists, you're either carrying too much, or you've got a bum back. If it's the former, lighten up. If it's the latter, you're hosed. No cure. There are temporary fixes, like chiropractic treatments, and pain pills, but the underlying problem will be with you for life. I've got a bum back myself, and I prefer pain pills because you can take them before you exert yourself and avoid the pain. Chiropractics only helps you after the fact, when you're already in pain, and it costs a whole lot more than commercial pain pills like ibuprofen, which work best for me. But you're still young. I'd try working out first.

Answer 5

The back pain when you were backpacks, means they're are too heavy. When ur at school, keeps your books in your locker, and keep your backpack lighter. For the hike coming up, the 35 pound pack is okay, only if you take breaks and put it down, off your back. After the hike take it easy though.

Answer 6

You might be surprised how much weight you are already carrying in your backpack.
Make sure you are wearing your backpack properly with the weight evenly distributed on your shoulders and waist and not hanging down too far.

Answer 7

i would say everyday or as often as u could stretch yourself. for example in the strddle position and reach for your feet. and maybe a one time thing happened so i would try an icyhot pad. if none of this info works consult your doctor

Answer 8

yah been there done that. wear a weight lifting belt!