Back pain can be very severe, especially if you have a herniated disc. Since everyone should strive to avoid back surgery it is best to try all non invasive treatments first. One of these that many people find helpful is an epidural. An epidural will many times reduce the pain and inflammation long enough for the back to heal itself. Here is a good article on the subject for anyone with severe back problems.
http://www.herniateddiscbacksurgery.com/epidural-for-back-pain.shtml