Mike: I am sorry to hear your pain. But I am happy for your post!!
If you dont have any numbness or weakness in your toes and buttock, and if the pain is grabbing in nature and catches you when you roll in bed or want to put your sucks on, then it is a muscular pain and the best treatment is as follows:
Heat rub massage( like BENGAY) for 15 minutes three times a day, followed by wrapping your back with a tight towel or a wide rib belt for the next two days.
I hope you get better fast as we all miss your input. REZA