Oh ages, ER. Several months probably, I'm sorry to have to tell you. I used Solgar advanced glucosamine complex tablets (but I've just looked that up and it is no longer available!). I didn't take the tablets until much later on, though, and they really did help. I spent lots of time resting with a very hot water bottle on my back, either lying down or sitting very upright. It still flares up now sometimes and I do the same - resting with a very hot water bottle or even walking round with one strapped to me (even in the hot weather!). I also use glucosamine and emu oil on my back or ibuprofen gel these days. I think it's the heat that really works for me now more than anything, and I don't mean the weather, which is nearly killing me right now! Back then I had some sort of physio at the GP's and then a type of laser treatment I think it was, but it didn't really help - she gave up with me in the end.
My husband also had a herniated disc, but he went to an osteopath and had results within weeks, so, hopefully, you will be the same. xx