Greetings, Colin. I hate to be the bearer of bad news. I have also had lower back pain for a couple of years prior to surgery. I had surgery and during the time I was in the hospital and the 3 weeks at home post surgery, I had virtually no back pain. As soon as I was up and around and getting back into normal life my back pain returned. I'm currently taking some steroid injections into my back - hasn't helped a lot so far but the radiologist who is doing it told me it might take a few shots.
Trust you are enjoying your recovery there in beautiful Thailand. We lived there for about 7 years - 1 year at U-Tapao AB down just south of Pattaya and then for 6 years in Bangkok. We love Thailand and most importantly the Thai people. I have never tried accupuncture but I have heard there are people who swear by it. I am sure they have that available in Thailand. There is also a good Thai massage that might help if the pain returns.
Here is hoping you will be different from me and your pain will stay away. Keep us posted. David