The second method of this happening happens over time.  If you do the same motions over and over again, this can cause a lot of stress on your lower back, in effect causing the same painful situation just prolonged over a period of time. 

If you continuously lift heavy objects incorrectly you can cause this.  In addition, sports injuries can cause it as can exposure to vibrations.

In either of these situations, you will need to address the pain and symptoms as soon as possible before allowing them to become even worse.  Treatment sooner rather than later provides ultimate protection for you.

Using this information you can determine if in fact you may be suffering from a herniated disk.  For situations in which you can not easily move or you can not walk, it is necessary to visit your doctor as soon as possible to be treated as severe pain can be an indication of many additional problems.

Yet, when you are just aching and you know that you have a herniated disc, there are several ways to get relief quickly and that is what we will discuss in the next chapters of this book.  The goal is, though, to know when to visit your doctor as complications can arise in situations that are unable to be cared for.