I have also had 3 lower back surgeries and I use Eberlestock packs. With my rifle in the scabbard I cinch the waist strap tight and then the shoulder straps and chest strap. The weight in the pack is supported by your hips and the shoulder straps hold your back straight in combination with the...
I went through this EXACT same injury in January, 2015. Multiple injections, MRI's, 2 microdiscectomies, followed by L4-L5 fusion in August '15. Shot a "meat buck" on the last day of the season with my son in law. He did most of the work (OK, all of it) but I HUNTED. You will be able to also...
Try the Deerhorn Mountain, Jungle Creek area up Thompson River. Fairly open with old clearcuts and I would bet a lot of the elk have moved in there from the Copper King fire. Bring your deer tag, bear tag, and a couple wolf tags with you.