I would not want to take a pain medication, such as percocet while driving. I think though you can legally, I do know drivers who took it, but I dont know if they actually took it like in the eve, or while on road.
In some people you may be able to, but although vicodin doesnt phaze me, it may some people. Im lucky so far, 23 yrs and I hurt a little but not constantly.
By 800pm , I might be hurting, but I recover overnight pretty well.
I would go with the other suggestions, especially the exercise route. And I bet you are thinking, that you get enough exercise, but since your body is acclimated, you need more................to get a benefit. Same with heart rate etc.