Progress? Not really.

The back report:   I still haven’t tried the narcotic, but I did increase the dosage of Advil and add in the cortisone pills.  Result:  greatly reduced pain, but one heck of a headache and dry mouth.  Hmmm.

Step 2:  reduce the cortisone, but start with the muscle relaxant; continue with the Advil.  Result:  pain ok, but very, very sleepy all the time.

Step 3:  try taking nothing.  Result:  Pain is back, but my head cleared up. 

Today:  Keeping up with the Advil;  half dose of muscle relaxant.  Result:  pain is tolerable, head a little woozy.

I see the doctor on Tuesday.  We’ll take it from there.