GEAH,
I too suffer from chronic back pain. I did my research, since my Dr. said he could do nothing else for my pain. I found that Ginger Root 550mg taken three capsules in the morning, and three capsules at night help reduce my inflammation and pain in my back. I no longer have to go to the pain institute for epidural cortizone shots....Just take my Ginger Root capsules daily. It is not expensive at the vitamin shops or even Walmart.
It is worth a try, since I did the same - I used to drink to numb the pain. Oh and I did run it by my Daughter - she is a Pharmacist...she says there are new studies ongoing about Ginger Root being an inflammation reducer.
IT truly has changed my pain level. Hope this information helps...and hang in there. I'm keeping you in my prayers.