Who says bracing the lower back does not help with healing ruptured discs?

I have been whining sporadically now for several months about my difficulties with a ruptured disc(or two, who really knows?) in my lumbar spine and can now say that I have recovered to an almost satisfying level of activity and pain freedom. For several months it was SO bad that I considered standing up to do the bowel business-no lie! I have tried just about everything short of invasive injections and surgery for this and here is my greatest healing tool:

Oh, yes I love this thing! I bought it on Amazon since I couldn't find a suitable device at any local retailers for a sufficiently satisfying price. I believe through my own experience that the key to rectifying sciatic and lower back pain from injured discs and instability is the avoidance of further pressure on the structures and as much immobilization as possible. This will not come about through ridiculous pills, steroids, physical therapy or core exercises. One does not exercise a broken leg to heal it, so why would that work with a damaged back? Numerous studies have declared that a support like I use is not an effective remedy for a ruptured disc or spinal instability. My experience declares this information to be inaccurate. The right sort of stabilizing action can make a huge difference!

I have worn this thing religiously-even to sleep in. I do get tired of being squeezed from time to time and this brace has superior squeezing action. It really holds my lower back together! 

I can walk almost normally now and check out the things I worked on in the yard:

I gave this bush a super makeover and I have even been able to plant some catnip!

I also have several basil varieties in the ground, some nasturtiums, and a couple of Habaneros. 

I still don't sit much at all, and I still avoid flexion of my spine. I may never be able to bend like that again, but I can deal with it. The main thing is that the excruciating bilateral sciatica has faded to a very minor odd feeling instead of a make me want to die pain. I do still spend time horizontal every day and I know that I am not the way I used to be, but there is hope! If you are facing what I have faced, I firmly suggest a wide lumbrosacral brace and avoidance of 'professionals'. Tune into your body and minimize that pain. Have patience-watch several TV series in back to back episodes-it's O.K. to not get physical, and-most especially-don't rush things. 

The advertising for this brace indicates use for strains and sprains-well-if your main goal is stability of this area, you can get this thing tight enough to compromise blood flow between brain and toes(which isn't pleasant or necessary) so it is also good for keeping your lower spine aligned and spaced properly. http://www.muellersportsmed.com/archive/back_brace_lumbar.htm and like their slogan says, it will help you "Stay in the game"..or..make a comeback!