I, too, have herniated discs in my lower back. My best advice for you is to start walking. Even if you can only go for short walks for short periods of time, if you persevere I am sure it will help. I've worked up to walking about two to three miles a day and it really makes a difference. I also take SierraSil daily and find that it helps a lot too. Take it for at least a month before you make your decision whether or not you like it. Set your timer when you sew! Every twenty minutes or so, get up and stretch.