Debby
I have had two laminectomy surgeries (arthroscopic surgery removing the portion of the disk compressing the nerve) on my L5-S1 disk due to rupture. The pain was severe and I could barely walk and occasionaly my foot would drag. and I could barely sleep. I would definitely not jog. The bouncing action would probably just compress the area of the sciatic nerve already aggravated. STick to walking or pool exercise, Low or no impact. Do not use the vacuum, have someone else do that. Do keep as active as possible. Have you had an MRI? That could tell you whether it is muscle spasms compressing the area or if you have a bulging or ruptured disk. PHysical therapy is also helpful. And making simple changes in HOW you do daily activities. Avoid lifting whenever possible, and then no more than about 10 pounds (or about a milk jug or 12 pack of soda). Sleeping on a very hard bed, with a board under the mattress will also help. If you sleep on your side, put a pillow between your knees. Or on your back, with a pillow under your knees. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. These positions will relieve the stress on the low back area. I have made these changes over the last 4-5 years and have what I consider a fairly normal life - though I still have a weak back, and occasional painful times. My kids still forget that I should not do some things. If you can take them, an anti-inflammatory like Advil/ibuprofen or Aleve can help. I have a weak stomach and could not. Wish you well.