Hi, I am in a similar situation. I have disc bulges and herniations in c5-6 c6-7 and in my lower back. i take oxycodone for the pain and soma for muscle. I take alot of it, I need to take alot of it. I was in accident in oct, and yes what is wrong with you would cause alot of pain. would get a second opinion b/c surgery can help you, and they can alos try steroid injections. Are you having any weakness anywhere? That is when they would do surgery. But no one can tell you how much pain you are in or how much pain you should be in, everyone is different and everyones pain tollerence is different as well. Good luck and I would try to find a new dr.