Hi msvjv,

Wow I have many of your symptoms but not the same problems with sleeping. It's very hard to think of something you haven't already tried, but here are three:

1. You mentioned you sleep with a pillow between your knees, so you must be a side sleeper. I suggest using two pillows (or one very long pillow) so that your knees and ankles are separated, creating a more neutral position for your spine.

2. Never use heat on your back or any joint. It does feel good but ultimately causes inflammation. Get used to ice, and use it frequently. A large, rectangular gel pad with straps would be good for the lower back.

3. See if you can get an Rx from your Dr for 5% lidocaine patches. These are a bit more powerful than Salonpas and you wear them 12 hours on, 12 hours off. Insurance won't usually cover these for back or joint pain.

That's all I can think of right now. You said you stretch, so make sure you're stretching your lower back, which often gets ignored. You can search for some good lower back stretches online.

All the best to you.

Joe