I can sympathize. Recently, someone here on the board showed her solution to balancing her quilt on all sides. She bought a piece of foam the height of her sewing machine bed and cut out the rectangle for her machine. She then covered the foam with slick plastic and had a smooth bed to support her quilt on all sides. Maybe you can find the post and look at her pictures.

I understand your frustration. I find that a break is necessary just to clear your head and get a new prospective. I also find that half a glass of wine helps tremendously. Just don't have it near your quilt or you'll have to search "wine stain removal". A thirty minute break with a glass of wine and checking the latest quilting board posts can make it a whole new experience.

I agree that you should look to your presser foot pressure. Sounds like it is too tight and go with a longer stitch length. JMHO.