The adage goes that "Misery loves company" but while it helps to know we are not alone in our various states of "misery," it is indeed disheartening to have to live with daily pain, albeit at various levels/intensities.... unfortunately for me, the overall diagnosis is "chronic pain syndrome," which is umbrella term for the way too many sources of daily, non-stop pain.
I, too, have spine issues. Learned just how extensive and serious they are when a pain management doctor ordered an MRI of the spine back in Jan/Feb of this year. While the results did shed lots of light on the "why" of my back/spinal pain and the shooting electrical jolts leading to my appendages, it all made me feel that much more determined to continue being ever-vigilant and protective of whatever procedures, drugs, injectables, etc. any professional says is an avenue for relief. I analyze and trouble-shoot, and have no qualms about saying "While I acknowledge your expertise and medical training, I respectfully do not accept that proposed plan." He had proposed a "nerve block" into the lumbar area. Uh-uh! Have had pain in that area for years, diagnosed as sciatica, which affects buttocks down to the feet. Learning that I have bulging discs, degeneration, and arthritis in that area explained a great deal to me. I had no idea that spinal stenosis also existed in my body, in addition to cervical arthritis. Really explained a great deal about the various problems and pains that other doctors had pretty much shrugged their shoulders and chalked it up to "you ARE getting older, and the body will tell you that with what you're feeling." Balderdash! Yes, I'm aging and accept that but do not use a blanket term for what my body tells me.
I recall when our kids were younger (three under the age of 10 at the time) and one male doctor told me to "...just get into bed and allow your body to rest and sleep." Seriously? I became pretty peeved and retorted "So you're volunteering to come home with me and take over the care of my three kids AND the cooking and housework also?!" His whole composure disintegrated, and I never returned to his office again. No, mothers don't get reprieves at all...
As women, we have it in our DNA to be caregivers, and not care-recipients...we just keep on going.
You are correct that a bit of humor can help, and smiles are visual hugs. Finding a ray of joy in each day is also helpful, because a positive disposition, smiles, and laughter rush endorphins to our brains. Something else that I've adopted for my self-care: I just LOVE to slip on those foot-mask socks, elevate my feet, and watch whatever I choose on TV. A hot pad around whatever body part needs it is the icing on the cake!
May you find many moments of humor and joy, give and receive visual hugs, and pamper yourself when you can.💖

I like you, have had FM over 40 years.. I'm sorry you are not able to take codeine but I understand because I tolerate no FM meds. I can't nap or don't sleep at night. I am able to take low dose clonazepam for sleep, perhaps you could try?