Hello. I was hoping someone could be so kind as to assist me. About 5 years ago I took a nasty fall on my back during a hockey game (body check) and went on to develop a compressed disc (degenerative disc) in my lower back. As a result I since have stopped playing hockey. I recently went out for a pickup game and after taking one hard stride for the puck, i felt my lower back pop and i was in severe pain for several days and could barely stand up. I was wondering if it will be possible for me to correct this problem with physical therapy or would I need back surgery. Hockey is an important part of my life and I would love to play again, but to go through a week of intense, debilitating pain again is not worth it. I would very much appreciate some feedback. Also, is there a back support brace that I can use while playing that might help? thanks so much