I have chronic pain issues too in my lower spine, sacroiliac joint. And I can't take NSAIDs because of my stomach. So I know about self-medicating with alcohol. But I've come to realize that the wine was probably causing even more inflammation and pain. I finally found a procedure that kills the nerve causing the pain for about 6 months. Nerves regenerate so I have to get it done twice a year. What sort of options have you looked into? I'm glad you came back.