I wasn't sure if traction for the DDD is OK or not.

If some of the back pain is from the disks crowding or collapsing on things then traction {it's a gentle pulling/stretching to open up the spaces} might help, but it would be something to ask dr about and read more about it.


["hypnosis/meditation/EFT"] might help with addressing the emotional/mental side of chronic pain

All of these have various videos on Google vids & you tube - some will be good and some will be not so good - so explore and find some good ones to try.

EFT is this - http://www.eftuniverse.com/
you can sign up for a free starter download - there are lots of videos on that site also.