If you have lumdar (3 and 4) pain and inflammation should you walk? As the day goes on the inflammation occurs.

Yes, keep moving but begin easily and don't lift or vigorously twist and avoid long periods of sitting.

You should be pain free in a few weeks and fully healed in 3-4 months from the initial rupture.

There is around a 5% chance of the injury returning, so try to address the following risk factors:
  -  Being a man (!)

  -  Improper lifting

  -  Being overweight

  -  Smoking

  -  Repetitive movements that strain the back - speak to your employer if you job involves a lot of physical activity

  -  Long car journeys - take frequent breaks

  -  Sedentary home life - take some walks

You may wish to consider applying some Atrogel^® for the pain if it has happened before and you know it'll get better over a few days or take some Atrosan^® tablets for longer term discomfort, which have a steroid-like effect on inflammation but without the downsides. They do take a few weeks to help but from then on are very effective.

Best wishes

Earle