I have found the use of a tens machine really helps when I have spasms relating to my ddd. I have it through out my spine. Swimming is also my best medicine. 7 years ago I started with one lap and not knowing how to breath right. Now I swim 45 min. of laps and have learned to breathe with ease, all from the help of YOU-tube videos on swimming. It takes a lot of patience and belief in yourself...but you can do it.Swimming helps keep your spine in line, strengthens the muscles around the spine so that it does not shift easily, and the actual water time does something miraculous for my pain. Even on days that I can't swim as much, just getting in the pool makes me feel so much better. I hope you find exactly what works for you! hang in there.