in 2009 i had two bulging disc s in my lower back L4 and L5 i believe. i have mild pain (5-6/10) every day. today when i woke up i felt normal sore but can still move around and do normal functions when i got to work i noticed when i bent to the right side there was a sharp pain like some stabbing me in my lower right back and my pain level moved up to about 8/10 since then. when i got home today i looked in the mirror with my shirt off and my right love handle was swollen.
Here are the symptoms what you have explain shows that there is increased problem at your back at spinal level. However the conformation will be done by MRI of your lumbosacral spine. Now based on this report I suggest visiting orthopedic doctor and take suggestion and treatment. If MRI reports showing mild to moderate issue at spinal level then orthopedic doctor will suggest for physiotherapy treatment with medication like calcium, vitamin D, muscle relaxant and painkiller. If MRI reports showing severe damage in spine at lumbosacral level then here or tho doctor will suggest for surgical correction and then physio treatment for further rehabilitation. In both above case you need to visit physio for postural advice and for spinal exercises suggestion and follow it to have long term relief as well prevention of recurrence. You can also use hot and cold pack at home to have some more relief as well to reduce inflammation and swelling in soft tissues. Take care.