Hi, I have had a herniated lumbar disc for a number of years. I have found that hiking and backpacking and walking around town, too, help it the most of anything. I don't like to take pain medications, so exercise is what has been the most beneficial strategy for me. I also do some partial sit ups. I have tried a couple sessions of pilates and felt miraculously better after just the two times. I plan on starting to do pilates on a more regular basis after camping season. Gladys