Hi Lee. For pain I apply a pain patch called Buprenorphine 10 mcg. It’s good for one week and gives me about 70% pain relief. I also take oxy and muscle relaxers for breakthrough pain rarely. I live in Michigan for the summers and Tucson for the rest of the year. I find the humidity in MI is killing me. I take a 40 walk each day with pain. My pain is primarily in my upper back. Entire thoracic spine is fused because of DISH. It’s a nasty disease and at times it’s hard to wrap my head around it. It is now in my ankles and getting worse. Not sure what I’ll do if I can’t take my walks. I’m trying to find a PT who can use some gentle modalities. Not an easy task. I’m also seeing an orthopedic surgeon at U of M in august as I haven’t had any images in three years. I desperately need to lose weight…..big factor is DISH. I hope you have a nice holiday weekend (as much as you are able). I try to keep a positive attitude, but it’s difficult at times.