Type 1 back ache

You were diagnosed with type 1 but all they gave you was metformin? That doesn't make any sense. Type 1s are occasionally prescribed metformin for weight loss issues but it's most commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetics. It's certainly not going to heal the damaged beta cells in your pancreas.

Are you on insulin at all? Something isn't adding up here and I hope it's not because your doctor is a quack.

Of note: when I was first diagnosed (type 1) the emergency room doctor also prescribed me metformin. Never even picked up the prescription after meeting with my primary doctor the next day,