One more hunting chair question

[Sam McMichael]

I have a bad back, and it has really been causing me grief on the few outings I have made. I bought a small 3 legged char not long ago, but it is not comfortable. I have been unable to sit my ladder stands at all. Back spasms and severe projected pains down my legs make it impossible (L4 is bulged).

I know quite a number of guys have discussed chairs they like, but I would specifically like to hear from others with back issues. I know that every back issue is unique, but others with lower back problems may help.

It looks like still another trip to the pill roller. A while back I had problems that were helped by several weeks of physical therapy, but if possible I would like enough comfort to make through a hunt now. Any suggestions?  Thanks.

[George Vernon]

Sam,
I broke by back in several places a few years ago and after two extensive reconstruction surgeries, I live with a collection of pedicle screws and rods holding things together.

A few design features can make a big difference for my back problems.  For example, sitting bolt upright with my back at a ninety degree angle to my thighs is uncomfortable.  So I look for a back rest that can be adjusted, or legs whose length can be changed to give a bit of incline.  Second, a mesh covering over the entire seating surface is more comfortable than hard bands or rigid members.  

As for specific seats that work with my back problems here is what I've found work best.  They are listed in no particular order.

Waldrop pac seat.  Can be used free standing or leaned against tree.  Seating area is all fine weave nylon mesh.  Very comfortable and light.  It sets close to the ground, and I've seen a few instances when I ran into problems with bows 64" or longer.

Millennium strap on tree seat.  Light with all seating surfaces covered with nylon mesh.  Works great on trees from six to 18+" in diameter.  No way to adjust incline unless you find the 'right' tree.

Millennium G100.  This is a brand new model for 2014.  It is their tree seat that has a modified frame that mounts on a swiveling tripod.  Light, at around 7 pounds.  Probably the best all around free standing seat I've found.  Easy to carry and one step assembly.  By changing the leg length I can get a reclining angle and sit comfortably for several hours.

[Pointer]

Lower back problems for years. None of the seats are entirely comfortable but I've settled on a 3 legged stool and I place a thick foam pad on top of it. The foam pad is actually a camo seat that's advertised for turkey hunting. I can tie both to my pack easily. Not the perfect solution but I can sit for a while without too much difficulty. I generally stand up every little while to stretch and maybe draw the bow a couple of times. I'm sure this helps

[kevsuperg]

i have cervical spine issues , cant sit for long periods w/o neck and shoulder pain and i just sat 3.5 hrs in a black out tripod chair w/o standing once.  no numb buns or legs
 wow, really comfortable, no strain on my neck at all. even dosed off several times
 the back rest was just the right height for me, i'm 5-11 240#.