100% this! When I was around 35, I got a herniated L5/S1; it was debilitating. I have a desk job, and years of bad posture and zero core strength caught up to me. I would get shooting pains where I had to grab something to steady myself to stand.
My doctor prescribed Dilaudid, a pretty powerful hydromorphone. I have addiction issues in my family and did not take any—and I’m really glad I didn’t. I’ve seen friends have to go to rehab for similar ‘doctor-prescribed’ opiates.
What helped me was exercise. First, just holding a doorway and kicking my legs backward to loosen up the area. Then leg lifts while lying down—one at a time at first, then both at the same time. Then pushups and situps. Then a gym routine of lifting heavy weights and cardio on a reclined bike where I also incorporate lighter 15 lb barbells.
I’m 47 now, in the best shape of my life with no back pain. Treat the root cause, not the symptoms!
On my back, start off slow and they get easier over time as your abdominal muscles strengthen.