Sorry you are having back issues. So many of us do. I read your MRI. I am not a professional, however I do look up things extensively. Most of us get some degenerative changes as we grow older. When your MRI says that you have nerve impingement on the nerve root, as you do in L5 and Probably in S1 that most likely is the real source of your pain. Anytime that nerve root is touched it is agony. Seek a second opinion no matter what you decide to do. Surgery is always a last resort. Try a number of therapies before you decide on the surgical approach. If the second neurologist says you need the surgery, well, then you must decide on what to do. I know it isn't fun to go through. There can be good outcomes to surgery. I will be here to listen. ginnie