no explanation needed Greenie..
I too have severe back pain and spend alot of time lying down or sleeping when I have things to do. I just plain sucks.
Because of metal in my face I can't do the MRI. But x-ray and cat scan and alot of head scratching.
They know part is arthritis and the worst is between L4 and L5 but because of trying to compensate for the pain much of my back continues to get worse and because of the way I have to sleep my neck is having problems as well.
Hang in there brother. Do what you can do, just make sure you take care of you.
I always enjoyed talking to ya back in the day and still do. If there is anything I can do to help please let me know.