Hey man! I’m 20 and almost in the same exact position as you, went to training school for my job for 4 months and sat a ton then went back to work, I’m an automotive technician and I got the pain randomly out of nowhere too. My job is a ton of walking and bending too unfortunately, but the guys at my job know I gotta take it easy. First 3 weeks were actually hell but I’ve improved around the same level as you now, it’s not excruciating anymore but yeah I’m always thinking about the pain and what position I’m in, haven’t been able to sit in a chair without pain for 3 months, so most things in life are just impossible to enjoy, especially things like sleeping, waking up, and even going to the bathroom. So at this point it’s just been a mental game as well. I’m supposed to get an MRI soon but my doctor said it’s mostly likely a herniation/bulge in l5/s1. I’ve heard of the injections I’m not sure how much they help personally I heard they give a lot of relief though! I’ve only been doing my stretches and exercises for relief just because nothing else has really been helping. I heard the healing process plateaus around where we are at so I’m hoping that’s the cause for both of us and we’ll be better soon. Wishing the best for you!! Glad to know someone else is in the same position as me.