I empathize with you completely. When I had my back surgery in 2006 they diagnosed me with degenerative disk disease specifically L5 S1 and since then S4 and S3 are gone the Dr’s want me to have more surgery but in light of the failure of the first surgery I am opting out. A more pressing matter is that of my right hip where the socket is rotted out due to AVN a condition which makes my life a living hell. Sorry such a strong description but I’m sure you understand how feel. On a good day my pain level is a six but most days it hovers at a 9 or 10.
The hassles with Dr’s and pain medication make it worse. I am completely frustrated with all of it. I don’t mean to be a downer but I just found this site and your post has elicited a need to vent sorry. Hang in there we will find a way through this.