I'm not qualified to read your MRI, but I do suffer from degenerated discs. I am 37 and have had issues on and off with my back going out since highschool and I have had severe pain for the last two years. I have two discs that are totally dried up along with a few odds and ends like a annular tear and a few bulges. I have been given very good guidance from my physical therapist.

Take it easy on your back, and always use your head as to what you lift and move. The key is to keep flexibility in your leg and back muscles and do pilates type stretches to keep your core strong and flexible. I have been struggling severe pain and having to use meds to cope, if you keep on top of things you should be able to advoid this in the future.

Of course you have to make sure that you dont agravate your back if you are dealing with pain and swelling, but this is what you have to ultimatly work towards. Let me know how things go with you and I hope the best.