Unlike @heyjoe415 I LOVE my heating pad. I am a second-generation user, LOL. My dad used to lay on his at night and now I do the same.
I have to do exercise and keep my core taught. I have degenerative disc disease. The Neurologist did nothing but the Orthopedic surgeon did everything immediately. You didn't say what kind of doctor you were seeing @msvjv make sure you've seen various doctors like a pain mgt dr., a kinesiology dr., oh, and be sure to find a GREAT MFR therapist!!! That is a lifesaver with no downside - except in your pocketbook! There is a section here on it. I swear by it better than anything. Arthritis by itself does not necessarily cause pain. You must have some other degenerative stuff going on. I hope you had MRIs and Xrays to pinpoint your pain. Usually the surgeon refers you for treatments. Or your doctor can do that. I loved my back surgery. Good luck!