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I have a problem

Ian41

Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Plan to walk Camino Frances April/May 2016 starting St Jean de Port
I am planning to leave St Jean on 28th April. I made my first post here on Nov 8th last year announcing that I was flying into Paris on 26th April and arriving in St Jean on 27th April. At that stage I was fully fit for a 74 year old. Since Christmas I have been having knee problems with my right knee. It was diagnosed as Osteo Arthritis due to, I hate to say it, age. Short of a knee replacement, it can only be treated by use of anti-inflammatory medication and pain killers. This was working well for my training allowing me to walk with my pack and trekking poles for up to 16 km at this stage of my training with the view to increasing the distance over the next few weeks. Yesterday, shock horror, my other knee packed up. I hope that it will respond to the same treatment.
I have read in a number of books about the Camino, and on this fantastic forum, that pilgrims and Albergues seem to look unkindly on pilgrims who don't carry their own pack.
I need to walk the Camino now, I have been planning it with so much excitement.

If I need to have my pack transferred for me, am I cheating?


Hi to all those planning to leave St Jean on 28th April.
Buen Camino all
Ian Weibgen
 
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Hi, @Ian44,
I would hope that no one on this forum would criticize you for doing what you need to do to be able to walk your camino. I managed my first camino last fall with osteoarthritis, controlled by anti-inflammatory medication and pain killers. I am 67. I believe that some albergues do not accept pilgrims who do not carry their pack, although I think that these are few. You will have to choose where you are planning to stay for each following night in order to make a booking and get your pack sent ahead to be at the albergue when you arrive. I would not like to have to do this, as I never knew, after the first three days (Orisson to Roncesvalles to Corazon Puro) where I would stay the next night. I just walked at my own speed and stopped when I felt like it. If you need to use a pack transferal service, by all means do so. Try it out at the beginning and see how it works for you. If you are happy with it and it lets you go on walking, good on you. I think that I would be a little nervous about committing myself to walk too far and not being able to catch up to my bag some night. But, if you have a telephone, there are taxis. If you want the compostela, you only have to walk all of the last 100 or so kilometres, and your bag can still be sent ahead. In short, do what works for you and adjust as you need to. It's your camino. Buen camino.
 
Thanks Albertagirl, glad you were able to complete your Camino. I have thought of very little else other than the Camino since I made it my goal last year.
I love the caring nature of the people who use this forum
Cheers

Ian

I
 
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If you are walking it, you ain't cheating. Who cares if you send your bag up ahead. I'd do it too if I was in my 70's and had knee problems. Carry a small day pack with you for water and provisions.
cheers and ultreia
 
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Mark Lee said:
If you are walking it, you ain't cheating. Who cares if you send your bag up ahead. I'd do it too if I was in my 70's and had knee problems. Carry a little day pack with you for water and provisions.
cheers and ultreia
Click to expand...
Hi Mark Lee

Thanks for your support, I just can't wait to head off from St Jean. That will be a dream come true.

Buen Camino

Ian
 
When we've been ill or injured, we have reserved a room a day ahead and set a bag for 7 euro. Though not all alberques will accept reservations or bags, plenty of private albergues, pensions, casa rurals and hotels will. Search HOTELS under camino resources for a spreadsheet.

Have no concern about being judged.

BTW: A bag of ice on the knees at night for several hours works wonders for me. Just protect the skin from frostbite.
 
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@Ian41 absolutely not cheating - and not only can you get your bag carried, but you can also call a taxi if needed. Public and donativo albergues are reserved (supposedly) for unsupported walkers, but there are now so many other options that it does not matter. On my first camino one of my walking companions for the first week was a friend with very badly damaged lungs. We knew he was never going to make the whole camino, but he was determined to at least give it a go. I have no hesitation in saying he was one of the bravest, most courageous people I've ever met - and he took taxis! So do not let it worry you.

It might be a good idea to carry a card with a translation into Spanish of your knee problem, just in case you have to visit a pharmacy or medical centre.
 
It's only cheating if you lie to yourself. That's the only opinion that you need to be mindful of

My hubby started in St Jean Pied de Port last year with a dodgy knee and prognosis akin to yours. He was quite concerned about it. He had some minor muscle and tendon issues, as well as shin soreness but the knee never bothered him at all. It remains strong even now.

I wish the same for you. Walk your own Way, whatever form that takes.

My only advice would be to send your pack on at the first twinge so that you never let a problem develop.

Go Well and Buen Camino!
 
Go for it! I walked the CF last year from St Jean and only made it because I had my bag transferred.
Well half a bag. I started with Achilles Tendonitis in both heels so I had no option. My tendons could not take the weight. So I limited my bag to about 4KG, with my spare stuff getting transported., Same this year. Just been for my Cortisone shots!

Do what it takes..... I'll be taking (as last year) Anti Inflamatories three times a day, with pain killers as required Icing, resting. After medical advice.

I would just get professional advice on what meds to take, and when. Also a Physio to advise on what you can do to reduce stress on the joints. Maybe some taping for example. Get your boots checked, in case they need 'shims' to level them out. (They fit under the insoles). Can make a big difference.

And Yes a couple of times I had to jump in a taxi because Physios along the way told me not to walk anymore that day. But not in the last 100 km !

Show me a statue of a pilgrim carrying a huge backpack I don't think it's in the rules......

Buen Camino
 
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Absolutely not cheating, Ian, do it any way you can. And on a brighter note, my husband walked from Porto then Ferrol and then to Finnesterre and Muxia last year after having a knee replacement 9 months earlier. Buen Camino. Jacki.
 
Ian
You might think that you need to walk the Camino - but, in fact, all that is true is that you strongly feel that you want to walk the Camino
You will need to balance your wish against the long-term damage to your knees that might be caused by your Camino
 
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A big Thank You to SCN, Kanga, Wokabaut Meri, Robo, Walli Walker, Dan and spursfan for your thoughts, support and ideas.
I have arranged to have to have cortisone injections just before I leave Australia. I certainly won't jeopardise my health by overdoing things. I will take the necesary actions when needed.

cheers
Ian
 
no worries, many pilgrims do pack transfers. not necessary those on this forum, but there are many many more pilgrims on Camino than here. it is your spirit what matters.
obviously the knees will need some attention anyway. the poles will help for sure and some maximalist shoes might be useful. have you looked at hoka one one direction?

last year my age tried to claim the knees as well and I was diagnosed with patellofemoral syndrome and some signs of cartilage degeneration. since I was desperately willing to keep going, the doctor recommended to boost the strength of gluteus and quadriceps muscles which apparently are responsible for the proper knee function. according him that is not the age, but too much sitting what kills the knees. mountain biking and wearing ankle weights were prescribed. the later stretches knees, allowing better cartilage oiling. now the symptoms have gone, although I do not like running on tarmac anymore. but please consult your doctor, whether such approach could be good in your case.
 
Thanks koknesis
I neglected to say that I have already exercise by swimming 2km three times per week and cycle 25km twice a week in addition to my walking. I have already had an injection of DUROLANE(hyaluronic acid) without any improvement. I have been doing exercises to strengthen muscles around the knee.
Everyone is so helpful and I am very touched

Cheers

Ian
 
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ENJOY it. It's SO much fun. Walk at your own pace and listen to your body and you will be fine. I had my pack forwarded a few days last year when my knee acted up in the mountains. Even my 20 year old super strong son had his forwarded 2 days for the same reason. My knee had no further issues so I carried my pack all other days. However I would have forwarded it every day if that would have been needed to keep walking comfortably. I admire you for doing this at age 70 ! Good for you. Buen Camino !
 
It's easy to send your bag forward and many people do. After a knee injury my wife sent her bag forward every day and no one commented or complained. The nice thing is that you don't need to plan ahead, you can easily decide the afternoon before whether to send your bag ahead. So enjoy!
 
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Robo said:
Go for it! I walked the CF last year from St Jean and only made it because I had my bag transferred.
Well half a bag. I started with Achilles Tendonitis in both heels so I had no option. .....
Click to expand...
@Robo, whilst I'm not happy that you're suffering from Achilles Tendonitis.(AT), at the same time it lifts my spirits that you managed your Camino regardless. The pain in both my feet was finally declared to be AT. But having suffered since last August, I was aghast when the specialist I saw last week told me that it could still take ONE YEAR before it would be sorted . But if you managed it then maybe I can walk my Camino in September this year (already postponed from last September ).
Suzanne
 
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Mine hasn't really improved over the last year. But what the heck. I managed it last year

This might be helpful. http://robscamino.com/tips-on-tendonitis/

But do get professional advice on how best to deal with it... And get your bag transported......and use 2 poles!
 
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Buen Camino
 
If I learned one thing on my Camino it is not to judge other's Caminos. Caminos come in all shapes and sizes. You do what's right for you and hold your head up high and walk on. I concur with the advice to use trekking poles. I would add to make 100% sure you know how to use them. Proper use of trekking poles can save tremendously on knee wear and tear.
 
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Ian41 said:
I have arranged to have to have cortisone injections
Click to expand...
I have arthritis in both ankles, and got a shot before one camino. It did not work. The doctor said that my continued training nullified the shot, that I should have rested completely until it did its magic! Ask your doctor if you should keep training.

If you go, you probably will just have to take the pain. I use ibuprofen, which is available in 600mg tablets in farmacia in Spain.
 
there's some wonderful medicine here in Spain that's over-the-counter available, dirt-cheap, and kills the pain of everything from toothache to sciatica. It's called Espidifen 600, a form of Ibuprofen. No side effects. Awesome stuff... they oughtta put it in the water supply!
 
Ian, this is your Camino and the only persons' opinion that matters is yours. Last year due to one of my companions very painful torn plantar fascia, we arranged to transport two bags worth between five of us, thereby reducing all our loads. While we only stayed in private albergues, we never had an issue or a raised eyebrow. You do what you need to do to enjoy the experience and not further your injury.
I ran into a nasty stomach bug at the beginning and had to bus the first stage meeting up with my friends that night. While on the bus I meet a Danish couple. He really wanted to do the Camino and his wife was willing to support his dream. He had heart issues several months before so they planned their Camino accordingly. Each day they walked as far as they deemed reasonable and then bused or took a taxi if they wanted to make a certain place. It worked for them and I don't think their Camino was any less "real" than anyone else's.
Buen Camino and remember you will still need those knees when you get home.
 
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Hello Ian,
You and I share the same affliction. It is severe in my right knee and hip, and both thumbs. Carrying excess weight will antagonize your pain problems so using a service to forward your bag is a great option for you. Pain management is a weird little beast to master. Too often we think that we will only take the medication after the pain becomes unbearable. I think we need to do the opposite; take pain meds and anti-inflammatories ahead of the pain and stay ahead of it. Pain has a tendency to increase when allowed to linger.

You are not cheating for goodness sake; cast that thought from your mind completely. You are a pilgrim that has heard the call and you are responding. Listen to your doctor's advice; ask her/him if he has any knowledge of medications in Europe to ask about when in a pharmacy (I was in Italy a year ago and got an excellent topical ointment that worked wonders for my knee), listen to your body while on Camino. Take one more step and enter into Santiago de Compostela.

Buen Camino
 
Cheating whom? I sent my pack ahead for no better reason than that I didn't want to carry it. For me the Camino opened up hugely when I did not have it looming over me. I had a day pack for my water and essentials and was as happy as could be that way.
Worry about your spirit and health and relative comfort - not about what other people think of your pilgrimage. If you have bad days you can take a cab and walk again the next day. No one is grading you. It isn't a race and it isn't a contest to see who can take the most punishment and keep walking.
Buen Camino!
 
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The simple answer is "NO!" You won't be cheating, it is YOUR Camino, not mine or anyone else's. What is their Camino is theirs and what is your's is yours. Take a small little day pack and pack-forward the rest, also the advise on poles is great advise. Take your time and listen to your body and enjoy.
Buen Camino!
 

Cheating is when you are trying to cheat somebody. Those "walkers" doing the entire way by taxi, stopping one kilometer before the albergue and dirtyng their shoes in puddles in order to be admited in a public/ donativo albergue. We call "turist-grinos" to these people, and we hospitaleros and pilgrims despise them. If you are honest with yourself and others nobody will call you a cheater. Do what you can, walk what you can, carry what you can. If tired, take a rest. If needed take a bus or a taxi. I have never heard about a true hospitalero, a true pilgrim judging sick persons, older persons, wounded person... If somebody are judging you, they are not true pilgrims or hospitaleros. And then...how cares of them? Buen Camino, enjoy. "Noli illegitimi carborundum"
 
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It's your Camino, not anyone else's. I strongly agree with the other posters. Do what you can do, be honest with everyone, don't worry about the rest.
Buen Camino.
 
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Nope. It's all about managing your limits. It's internal, not external. Do whatever you think will get you to your goal in the way you want and can accomplish.
 
Absolutely not I used Jacotrans from Ponferrada and don't think I cheated my Camino was amazing Buen Camino Ian!
 

Ian- cheating???? OMG, no
Here's a list of baggage transfer companies - by all means, engage one: (Jacotrans, Caminofacil, and Paty do the whole Frances routes)

JACOTRANS provide a luggage transportation service that stretches along the entire Camino Frances route. They also help pilgrims with postal services (sending things back home). If you need anything (perhaps walking sticks, clothing items etc), they will provide them at a fee. Cyclists can also use them to assist with bicycle repairs.
BOURICOTT EXPRESS take your luggage over the Pyrenees from St.Jean Pied de Port in France to Roncesvalles in Spain.
TAXI BELORADO transport your luggage between all towns on the Camino Frances starting at Roncesvalles and ending at Santiago de Compostela.
CAMINOFACIL courier your backpack or other luggage along the Camino Frances
TAXI CAMINO operates along sections of the Camino Primitivo
LE PETIT BAG will transport your bags along certain sections of the Camino Del Norte. They provide different telephone numbers for different sections that you might want your luggage transported.
THE PEREGRINE EXPRESS also transport luggage along specific sections of the Camino Del Norte.
JACOTRANS LEON take your bags from Ribadeo to Santiago de Compostela (on the Camino Del Norte)
PATY SERVICES transport both luggage and people along a number of French routes to St. Jean de Pied de Port and along the Camino Frances.
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
It's your Camino, forwarding your bags is not cheating. Just like my bicycling is not cheating. Do your pace, your way. Within the rules of a walk, ride a bicycle or horseback mule that you must follow. Completing the Camino is on your own terms. You can takes years to finish it as well. I have completed the Camino last year and decided to have another journey. This time enjoying the adventure instead of rushing it. I even use the forwarding package Jacobtran. It was great not having the bags along while climbing the hills and mountains.
 
Ian, this is your Camino. Do it any way you wish! Given your knee issues one idea is to adjust your goals. Have a minimum target distance to reach, and a more aggressive plan, perhaps the one you are already planning to complete. It is better to successfully reach your first goal than failing to reach some objective which your injuries may preclude.
 
Two people start out each morning from an Albergue
A young fit man in the peak of physical condition with a pack weighing 8 Kg
A young girl with cerebral palsy who sends her pack ahead of her.

He walks for 6 hours covering 25 k and arrives at the next albergue mildly fatigued.
She puts in her best effort for 6 hours, covers 10 k, takes a taxi to the albergue and arrives exhausted.

They repeat this for 30 days

From a physical point of view, who's put in the most effort ? Does anyone really think the young girl is cheating ?

You're somewhere in the middle of these two Ian. Get out there and enjoy yourself but don't needlessly damage yourself.

Buen Camino
 
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No, there is no cheating and no shame needed! Also, there would be no shame if you decided to skip that very demanding stage from St Jean to Roncesvalles. Just to be sure that the strain you put on your knees on the first day of walking will not affect the rest of this very long walk. Most of the Spanish long distance pilgrims start on the Spanish side of Pyrenees, in Roncesvalles, anyways.
Also, in St Jean there is a company called the Express Bourricot - they can not only bring you or/and your luggage from SJPP to Roncesvalles, but at 8:30 am you can go with them just to the Thibault Cross, and you can start crossing the Pyrenees from there, still in France, but let's say, from "the suburbs" of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Check "The Mountain Shuttle" link below for details.
http://www.expressbourricot.com/persons-transport/

See photo: La Croix Thibault - Thibault Cross

Whichever your decision is, Ian, I wish you Buen Camino and good luck on the Way to Santiago!
 
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It is YOUR Camino, Ian, you do what makes YOU happy and succeed. It is not about anyone else, nor do you need to justify yourself.
We all have a story, we all have reasons.
Stay true to yourself and have a wonderful experience... best wishes
 
Hi Ian what a coincidence!!! I have been planning my camino for a year now..I start on 26th April from SJPDP. I have been training well for 6 months. Low and behold last week my left knee started playing up. I have rested it etc etc and hope to God it will be ok soon cos I don't intend to cancel my camino. I am a little concerned but hoping for the best.Buen camino to u and good luck
 
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Hi Ian, you are not cheating what so ever.
Take it easy and keep listening to your body.
Wish you a wonderful journey and a Buen Camino, Peter.
 
I know that if I need to do so, I will be forwarding my pack, should my body need a break from the weight. Though my pack would be much lighter than foolish pride. I love all the options available catering for every dream
 
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This is your Camino Ian, do it any way you can, run it, crawl it, hop, carry your bag, use a service. The cheaters are those who are not true to themselves. I start my Camino in September, I've no idea how it will be carrying the bag day in, day out for up to 6 weeks, all I can do is my best and if that means a call to a baggage service then so be it. Buen Camino
 
It is YOUR Camino! Do it your way!
 
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Hello Ian, I haven't read all the answers but mine is 'nooooo, you won't be cheating', don't even think about it,
.
I wish you well and a buen camino
 
Ian41 said:
If I need to have my pack transferred for me, am I cheating?

Buen Camino all
Ian Weibgen
Click to expand...

NOOOOOO... Did I say that loud enough?

It sounds to me like you're a man on a mission and two dodgy knees aren't about to get in your way... Bravo that man!

I walked with a lady that sent her bag on... She had no problems and it worked perfectly for her.

My own thoughts are that if someone wants to call you a cheat they perhaps need to ask what lessons they need to get from their own Camino... Maybe less judgemental perhaps for starters?

I hope you have an amazing trip.
 
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Hello to all of the above posters. I am over overwhelmed by the kind thoughts and encouragement that you have all expressed. The fellowship of the Camino Forum is amazing and I feel very lucky to be part of it. There are too many of you to reply individually but each one of your posts is precious to me.
cheers

Ian Weibgen
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
It's YOUR journey. You do it anyway you see fit. It would be wise however to carry water, a little food, some layers and rain gear.
 
I will Espidifen my way through Spain
 
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Kanga said:
Espidifen, red wine and the occasional massage - a winning combination. But not all together.
Click to expand...
What does it cost for a massage in Spain? I don't drink, so I can use that money for massages
 
Gosh, that's asking. I remember thinking it was good value. From memory 15 euros for 30 minutes?
 
Kanga said:
Gosh, that's asking. I remember thinking it was good value. From memory 15 euros for 30 minutes?
Click to expand...
Thanks. That will be my special treat when I am beat up and sore. I leave in less than 5 weeks now. I am really feeling stronger with my pack walks. You have been such a help.
 
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I guess you got the message by now that there is no such thing as cheating if you are being true to yourself. In 2014 I was carrying a couple pounds too much weight in my pack and my right knee became strained. A knee support, a taxi ride, two days of pack transfer service, Voltaren, and a few short days solved the problem. You do what you need to do. If you are concerned, however, I would suggest considering starting in Pamplona or even Logrono to avoid the first few most difficult days on the whole Camino. If you are not stuck on doing The Whole Thing (whatever that is), then avoiding the high altitude Pyrenees and using a pack service as needed might ensure greater success.
 
Rebekah Scott said:
... It's called Espidifen 600, a form of Ibuprofen. No side effects. Awesome stuff... they oughtta put it in the water supply!
Click to expand...

being an ibuprofen addict, I need to warn, that it MAY cause side effects, and most likely WILL cause, if overdosed.
it is a DRUG, and more detailed description one may find in: http://www.aemps.gob.es/cima/pdfs/es/p/73840/73840_p.pdf , but basically:

Dosage and administration
Setting individually, depending on etiology of disease, severity of clinical manifestations. When administered oral or rectally adult single dose of 200-800 mg, the frequency of reception - 3-4; for children - 20-40 mg / kg in divided doses.
Topical applied within 2-3 weeks.
The maximum daily dose for adults when administered oral or rectally is 2.4 g.
Oral, after a meal. Rheumatoid arthritis - by 0.8 g 3 times a day in osteoarthrosis and ankylosing spondylitis - by 0.4-0.6 g 3-4 times a day, in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis - at 30-40 mg / kg / day in several stages.
When soft tissue injuries, sprains - 1.6-2.4 g / day in divided doses.
At moderate pain syndrome - 1.2 g per day.
Espidifen side effects
Digestive system: frequently - nausea, anorexia, vomiting, epigastric discomfort, diarrhea, possibly the development of erosive and ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract; rare - bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract, long-term use possible liver problems.
Central nervous system and peripheral nervous systems: frequently - headache, dizziness, sleep disturbances, agitation, visual impairment.
Hemopoietic system: long-term use may be anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
Urinary tract: long-term use possible renal dysfunction.
Allergic reactions: often - skin rash, Quincke's edema, rarely - aseptic meningitis (usually in patients with autoimmune diseases), bronchospasm syndrome.
Local reactions: when topical used may be hyperemia of the skin, burning or tingling.

I would wish, they better put some vino tinto in the water supply, even though I know very well there will be side effects
 
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Do yourself a big favour, send the bags on for at least the first week until you find your rhythm and get your knees used to the trail. Re-assess after the week and repeat if necessary.

Sometimes what we carry with us in our heads and hearts is often heavier than the contents of our rucksacks.
 
marylynn said:
avoid the first few most difficult days on the whole Camino.
Click to expand...
While the climb over the Pyrenees is a workout, it is the first few days that are difficult regardless of where you start! The Alto de Perdon leaving Pamplona can be as exhausting as the Pyrenees; the days after Leon/Astorga take you to the highest points on the Camino. It is very flat out of Burgos, so that is about the only starting point that does not have noticeable altitude change. Realize that consecutive half-marathons is a workout, and keep your pace reasonable.
 
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Great advice throughout the thread. As I have two bad knees myself, the only thing I can add, which helped me, was wearing knee braces, and learning to use trekking poles effectively.

In regards to trekking pole rubber foot pads, I found that these Leki models provided great traction and better support for me: http://goo.gl/CgfYii They are a bit expensive, but lasted my entire Camino and still in great shape. It’s a preference to consider.

All the best for a successful Camino!
 
Hi Ian,

I'm on my first Camino now - started just over a week ago. It's a bit of a grind but I'm settling in OK. A few thoughts:

I'm 71. I've been trying to overcome a bad case of plantar fasciitis for the last 9 months. It's under control - I use Voltaren ( a non steroidal anti-inflammatory ointment, I'm told it's like a topical Ibuprofen but isn't as strong ). I'll switch to oral Ibuprofen if things get distracting.

I have a larger bag transferred ahead every day. It's got a CPAP machine, medication and camera gear in it. If I had to carry a full pack I wouldn't make it to Santiago. I'm walking it, better than not walking it. I see people middle-aged and older bent over under heavy packs and I wonder what physical price they might pay long term.

I met a fellow Australian a few days back. She must be about 75, is walking very slowly with a steel pin in her femur. She booked this trip then fell down a flight of stairs the next day. Came anyway. She takes taxis when she gets to her limit. She skipped Alto del Perdon. Saw her today. She asked how my foot was doing! She's a remarkable person.

On the advice of an experienced friend, I wear Mueller knee straps all the time while walking. They hold the patella in place. I had a long chat with the owner of Caminotech, a good hiking gear shop in Pamplona, he sells stretchy knee braces. He said that if people need the knee braces he sells, it's "too late". He thought my straps were a great idea, prevention is better he said, but he doesn't sell them because they're not popular.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that information and preparation are crucially important. Frinstance - if I may suggest, get your walking pole technique sorted. My poles don't have shock absorbers but I use big rubber tips which I call my 4WD knobs. They grab onto uneven paved surfaces in the wet, don't sink in mud and most importantly, they don't strike the ground so hard that they jar my arm and wrist. Can't believe so many people use such hard-tipped poles. And they're noisy. Proper technique will take some effort off your legs and knees. You know this already, I'm sure.

I saw a very good sports physiologist for a few months before leaving on my Camino. She showed me some very specific exercises and coached me re how to manage my feet.

I've been training for many months. My legs are strong, as I expect yours are. Leave that backpack to the guy with the van and

Buen Camino, - Mike
 
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Ian41 said:
I have read in a number of books about the Camino, and on this fantastic forum, that pilgrims and Albergues seem to look unkindly on pilgrims who don't carry their own pack.
Click to expand...

I've never run into anyone like that. If you do, tell them to mind they own business.

ENJOY YOUR CAMINO!!!!!!
 
Let us pick up your suitcase once you arrive in Europe....
...and ship it to Santiago for storage. You pick it up once in Santiago. Service offered by Casa Ivar (we use DHL for transportation).
Kanga said:
Espidifen, red wine and the occasional massage - a winning combination. But not all together.
Click to expand...
Hi there Kanga. Joodle and obinjatoo
Thanks for the responses
I love the advice on this forum. Espidifen, red wine and massages.
Way to go!!!!

Ian
I hope that you are able to start on 26th April Franco as planned. Thank you for your good wishes. All of the advice so far has me now thinking seriously forwarding my pack if my knees don't perform, especially on the 1st day out of St Jean
I wish you Buen Camino and will be thinking of you. Maybe we will cross paths on the trail
cheers
Ian
 
I hope that you are able to start on 26th April Franco as planned. Thank you for your good wishes. All of the advice so far has me now thinking seriously forwarding my pack if my knees don't perform, especially on the 1st day out of St Jean
I wish you Buen Camino and will be thinking of you. Maybe we will cross paths on the trail
cheers
Ian
 
Hi Mike
Thanks for telling me about your experiences on the Camino and before you started. I hope that the walking gets easier for you. My readings all say that the first week is very difficult but that your body adjusts after that.
Everything was going fine for me these stupid knee pains. I seem to me managing them with anti-imflatatories and I have planned to have steroid injections a week or so before I leave.
As well as the discomfort, all of this mucking around with the knees plays havoc with my mind set. Will or won't I make it?
The kind responses on this forum have helped me to stay positive and to think about things like forwarding my pack if /or when needs be.
Keep walking Mike and good luck

cheers
Ian
 
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It's not cheating. Is the pilgrim being pushed in a wheelchair cheating, absolutely not. Is the pilgrim that rides a bike or horse or uses a donkey to carry his load cheating, no. The spirit is willing. The spirit is what's important. Medieval pilgrims had little more that the clothes on their back, a gourd, and a staff.
Buen Camino

Happy Trails
 
Have you ridden a horse lately? Have you any idea what it takes to ride a horse over a long distance! Not exaclty couch-potatoing.

And let's please stop using the disabled as an excuse for the rest of us. If someome has a real disability, real pain and limitations it's one thing, but let's not use these people and, not saying that this is what the OP is doing, far from it. I am just tired of the same recording, using th minuscule % of those truly challenged and limited, as an excuse for the rest of us.
 
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Great advice David
 
Train on the 4-day Catalina Camino
Train for your next Camino on California's Santa Catalina Island March 16-19

Dear Ian,
You are a Pilgrim and that what counts. Cheating also means dishonest, are you being dishonest? NO! Follow your heart and try to leave judgement behind. Most albergueros and pilgrims will often advise you to do exactly that, use a pack transfer service.
I wish you a healthy and fulfilling pilgrimage.

Bethesdachika
 
I can't give any advice on that topic but try to integrate fresh turmeric daily into your cooking. That will help your knee good luck and feel better!

 
Hi Ian.There is a spanish website www.caminodesantiago.consumer.es and it gives lists of all the albergues in each stage. There are many small private albergues and you can book into these, because you need to know where you will be staying if you are to send your rucksack ahead. These are only very slightly more expensive than the municipal albergues varying from €8 t0 €10. You can also read reviews written by people who have stayed in them.

Buen Camino
 
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First of all it is not cheating. Think of yourself as an ancient pilgrim who has a donkey carrying your pack, only it is a modern mechanized one.

May I suggest you do a little research on Niacinamide (not niacin). There is over 40 years research on how it helps with arthritis and even recent double bind studies. It is a vitamin with no side effects, but takes about a month before you notice the improvement. As an active 67-year old, I swear by it.

I might see you on the Camino I will be leaving by bike from Pamplona on Monday May 2.

Buen Camino
 
It's no more cheating for you to have your pack transported than it was cheating for me to have bariatric surgery to cure my morbid obesity (though I was accused of that anyway).

My husband and I are in our mid-60s and plan to walk the Camino next spring 2017. Our intention is to carry our packs, but we will have them transported in an instant if we find they're too much for us to manage.
 
Hi Ian,
You plan on walking over 800 km. That is hardly cheating. My girlfriend and I have done three full Caminos. She has always used a transport service to sent her pack ahead, and you know what? It's fine, and you will find that once you are out there no one will judge you. In fact, you may find people asking you about the service so they too can use it.

The Camino is not punishment. It is meant to be enjoyed and you should do it in a way that is comfortable for you. Those services exist for a reason: because many people use them on a regular basis. It's part of the Camino. There is no right way or wrong way to do the Camino. No books of Camino Rules exist. It is your Camino and you do it the way that makes you comfortable and happy.

There is a romantic notion about the Camino that we should do it like they use to do it in the old days. In the old days they too also used whatever services and options were available. They just needed to get to Santiago. Now, along the Camino, we eat hot meals in nice restaurants, along the way we drink cold refrigerated beer, we check our email and use our IPhones and IPads. We stop in supermarkets and stores along the way for bottled water and fresh fruit, and use the latest technology in clothing and sleeping gear. Hardly the way used by the original pilgrims. But is is okay. Everybody benefits. The Pilgrims, the store owners, the restaurants, the backpack transporters. Everyone. That sounds okay to me.

Ian, we all use the things that make our Caminos easier. All of us. You are still going to attempt to walk over 800km. That's a lot. Good for you. Make sure to have a blast.

Ray
 
Camino Preparation Guide
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
You will at least cheat yourself if you do not try, in easy stages or by alternative transport. Or you might come back to do another installment later.
You might want to use walking canes or trekking pooles as well, will support your gait considerably...
 
BTW: A bag of ice on the knees at night for several hours works wonders for me. Just protect the skin from frostbite.

Ice, definitely ice. Bring some quart size zip lock bags,which can be reused, evening after evening.
 

what is the matter of cheating here? taking a chopper to the basecamp, or straight to the summit? come on, the Camino is not an athletic achievement. first off, it is a spiritual way, where the gear or struggle does not matter. there are a plenty of other trails where one can prove whatever the purpose is. talking about Camino dimensions, there is no such a thing to consider - me and my backpack. in contrast there is the way and fellow pilgrims, and countless steps in front of you once you have started. as many times it has been acknowledged here, reaching the Cathedral is just a beginning.
 
Altus BALI Sleeping bag liner
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-

You go on and do the Camino if your doctor has given you clearance. This your time and your Camino. Hundreds of years ago I am sure that the pilgrims walking the Camino carried a nap sack and not backpacks.
Their should be no judgements made and no labels on pilgrims who do not carry their backpacks. Remember that your Camino and it is not less than any other pilgrim on the road.
I hope to walk the Camino in late August and I will have no shame for not carrying mine. (I had back surgery last year and at this stage I can't carry that weight yet). Think of it this way-you are contributing to the local economy by having a service do it. Buen Camino.
 
Thank you for your thoughts vgen5122
Ian
 
Thank you to Bethesda um, Rebecca Blondell, Lydia Gillen, Older Guy, Urbanhiker, psychoticparrot, Stivandrer, BLG and koknosis,
as I posted earlier I am grateful for all of the support and advice offered to me. I am feeling much more positive now about attempting this exciting journey.
Taking it one step at a time from St Jean will be my guide
Buen Camino all

Ian
 
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It's not possible to cheat if you don't believe you are cheating. The Camino is what YOU make it. Be who you want to be and do what you need to do.

Buen Camino.
 
I think you misquote me here;
I am merely using the other meaning of the word, stating that please do not cheat yourself by NOT going at all and do not cheat yourself from the experience of trying by any combination of transport, including varied lengths og stretches that will allow Ian to walk the Way !!
 
Ian, please make use of any transport service that helps you with the camino. At 69 with plantar fasciitis problems of my own after Burgos, I didn't hesitate to send my pack with Jacotrans. I had to use buses and a couple of taxis too in order to finish. I thought of my physical problems as part of my pilgrimage and just accepted that. I didn't want to end my camino and I especially wanted for my husband to be able to finish his camino. Just go and trust that St. James will help you along the way. Buen camino!
 
Camino Preparation Guide
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.

Thanks for the site Lydia. It looks interesting but my Spanish leaves a lot to be desired. Anyone have a similar site with English translation?
 
Bumpa said:
Thanks for the site Lydia. It looks interesting but my Spanish leaves a lot to be desired. Anyone have a similar site with English translation?
Click to expand...

Bumpa,

For English info you might run the Eroski info through any on-line translation program.

However you could use the new Spanish Correos/Post Office bilingual web to find accommodations as well their their service to transport your backpack or case. See more on their handy bilingual site www.ElCaminoConCorreos.com Tap the EN tab at the top for all info in English. Then tap the name of your camino route for all the info.

Buen camino!
 

Ouch...
 
Promote your Camino Project on the forum
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Hi Montana Jayne
Thank you. My knees seem to be shaping up as a significant part of my journey in my final days leading up to leaving Australia.
My confidence about the Camino have changed a lot over the past weeks has had quite a few ups and downs

cheers Ian
 
I too am planning to walk the Camino later this summer and I have bad knees and do not intend to carry more than a small day pack and will pay to have my gear transferred every day. I am not going to let other people's negativity influence my decision. I know my limitations and I am ok with that . I trekked to Machu Picchu last August and carried a daypack and the rest was portered and no one judged us.
 
Hello Ian,

It's not cheating at all. Please look after yourself and enjoy the Camino. I applied voltaren emulgel on my knees after a day's walk and found it quite effective.
 
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Join the Camino cleanup. Logroño to Burgos May 2025 & Astorga to OCebreiro in June
Hi cat tree 2016
All advice is welcome

cheers

Ian
 
Oh please don't feel like that! When you call out "Buen Camino" to a Spaniard they respond "Igualmente" which means "And to you" but also means "Equally". We are all equal on Camino - those who walk fast, those who camp under an apple tree, those who start where they can and travel how they can. If anyone ever looks down their nose at someone for progressing in a way that is not their way then it is they who are cheating not you. I certainly came across no unkindness of the sort you describe. Buen Camino.
 

Hi Anna, When somebody is doing anything, and dont feel ashamed of what he is doing, dont feel the need of justify herself. If you are really OK with your behavior, who cares what other are thinking? But if you are very concious about others reproachs, if you are thinking everytime others are condemning you, maybe you must reconsider your attitude. Dont call others judgmentel. Are you whom are judging and embarrassing yourself. Be what you are. Are you thinking about tourism? Wellcome to the camino. Are yo thinking about Pilgrimage? Welcome to The Camino. Behabe like what you are.
You feel like a pilgrim but can´t carry your bagpack because your health or age condition? No problem, send it by taxi, enjoy your pilgrimage. Do you simply think its very uncomfortable to carry your gear? Lets pay to transfer it, then confront your feelings. But please dont call other people "negative". Be honest with yourself. Enjoy what you are honestly doing.
Been a tourist, been a pilgrim is your choice. Both are honourable choices. But if you feel you are cheating, then maybe...
I´m not insunuating anything, Each person´s conscience is the strictest referee each one can find.
Buen Camino all honest people.
 
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Hi there Alison Chandler and Pinguigrino

I really appreciate all of the suggestions and thoughts on this forum following my post.
I now feel much more comfortable with my decision now to look after myself first and not think about forwarding my pack if when or where the need arises.


Buen Camino all

Ian Weibgen
 
Knee problems! I was interested to see on a recent TV interview that David Attenborough has finally capitulated and is now happily sporting two new knees of the titanium variety. (Can he really be over 90?). My comments will come too late to influence Ian who is presumably somewhere on his "way" by now.
Reading this thread has, however, prompted me to put in my two-penneth, as we used to say in Lancashire. I too have arthritic knees, which at 71 impact on my life. I would love to be ABLE to walk the Camino, but much of the well-meaning advice I have read above would just not work for me; I must be well past that stage. Walking a kilometre to the supermarket, and carrying a shopping bag back is nearly enough to finish me for the day, anti-inflamatories or no. Strangely, though, what I can do is ride a bike, albeit rather slowly. (So too can Ian by the sound of it. He mentions doing two 25km rides per week). And therein may lie the answer for some people. In six weeks I leave on my fourth Camino, on a rented bike from Seville, with the confidence that I will complete my pilgrimage. I would hate to think that walking a Camino (or to be honest, the first stage of one), might be the last time I walked anywhere without titanium.
As almost everyone has pointed out, there is no such thing as cheating. I get to Santiago under my own steam, admittedly a little faster, but my average speed is only round about 11km/hr; (yes, I have technology too!) And I would mention that I have always been made to feel part of the wonderful Camino community.
Admittedly, in 2015, I had to abandon the climb up to O Cebreiro; getting off and pushing can be impossible. So yes, I reversed course and took a taxi. Who cares?
 
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