I don't believe herniated discs heal over time. It depends on if you catch it in time to stop the destruction with physical therapy. I was in a car wreck 15 yrs ago and my back & sciatica are getting worse. I take zanaflex 4 mg, biofreeze med lotion, heating pads and never lift over 20 lbs. I took a year off percocet, but I can't handle the pain with just aleeve anymore. I'm having a 2nd MRI this year. I'm carrying too much weight from seroquel, but I no longer sit at a desk all day which helps. When I walk to lose weight my left side and foot go completely numb and I limp. House cleaning is next to impossible especially if it involves sweeping, mopping or raking leaves. I do stretching exercises and pilates or yoga.