Michelle
I also have arthritis in my back,the type that I have is called spondylosis, which is degenerative arthritis. The fluttering type symptom that you describe may very well be coming from your sciatic nerve being compressed from your bulging discs. I too have a bulging disc at L4 and that is where the "heart" of my spondylosis is located, in the lumbar region. I am only 28 years old and I opt not to have surgery because that sometimes can do more harm than good when it comes to back problems.I suggest that if you have a physician, ask for a muscle relaxant, I personally find SOMA to work best for me(it may be too strong for others)this type of medication may help with the sciatica because sometimes your muscles involved with your sciatic nerve have spasms and make sciatica much more painful.I also suggest you try slow easy stretching when you have a "sciatic attack" this too may help, but always get the advice of a physician because these cases vary with each individual.I hope this information helps you and anyone else that is suffering from a back problem,if you want to talk, feel free to email me. Go With God's Love and Grace, Michelle K Vineland NJ