Please start reading here:

http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=3833

In short your FC has to be much, MUCH higher than "pretty good". It needs to be maintained at the shock level determined by your CYA (stabilizer) level. Strips don't measure higher than 10ppm and you'll probably need to be at the 15-20ppm level.

I see no reason you can't use your Polaris to save your back and muscles. I've run my Blue Diamond 4 times already to save my back.