First, this kind of arthritis (osteo) and bone spurs are a natural part of aging, though most folks get them a little later than yourself (you're ~29/30, right?) There's nothing you can do about that; it is what it is. Bone spurs are a way the body uses to protect itself. They are usually not of concern unless they impinge on nerves or cause pain in some other way (heel spurs, etc.)

It's not really your PCP telling you these things; it's the doctor/technician who read and interpreted your MRI. (Your PCP just interpreted the report into English, if that. )

A second opinion is probably only warranted if somebody is suggesting/recommending surgery, which should be the last resort after all other therapies have failed. It sounds to me like you have quite a few other things to try in the meantime.

Generally, in cases like these, they do just what they are doing. They begin with the most conservative measures, and progress from there until they find something that allows you enough comfort to function. The expectation is/should not be to be pain-free (stinks, I know, but that's the politics of pain). The goal is to reduce the sense of suffering and improve the quality of life. A next logical step would be physical therapy, osteopathic manipulation and/or chiropractic (depending on location). Physical therapy helps a great many people with similar conditions.

If those don't work, there are still many more before surgery should be contemplated. Surgery may sound like a quick fix; it is not, does not guarantee an end to pain, and can cause more complications further down the road, especially in a younger person (e.g. Domino Effect, Failed Back (Surgery) Syndrome).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Failed_back_syndrome

At some point, if these conservative approaches do not help (and we should be hoping they do) you may need to ask to be referred to Pain Management, which can include a LOT of other therapies.

There is definitely hope, but realistically (no BS), it may take some time (and frustration) in finding/getting it. It may help to view this as a journey rather than an event. Part of why we're all here is helping each other along the way.

BTW, Ford or Chrysler/Dodge?

Doc