My dilema with pain medicine

You don't say what kind of pain, other than chronic pain. I also suffer chronic pain and I use many alternative methods for my pain. Biofeedback. Meditation. Heat. Relaxation. Even exercise. Nutrition. Pain flare ups are scary. I know what your going through. Its been 12 years for me.

I have similar, though not yet as severe chronic pain from a severe fall I took in the Navy. I have pain in my lower back, both knees, and can't lift my right arm above shoulder level, without having a 'lock-pop' happen. A couple of suggestions that may help a bit. When driving (assuming you do), have something between your back and the chair, like a small pillow; I roll up an old hoodie. You may also need to adjust your seat, as you don't want to be bunched up, but you don't want to stretch for the pedals. When sleeping, you may want to add extra pillows to support your head, as well as your lower back. You may find it better to sleep on your side, in which case you may want to add a pillow between your knees. Experiment to see what helps. This won't totally eliminate it, but I've found that these help, especially issues with my lower back and knees.