You really do have some issues in multipal locations in your back. All the more reason for more opinions. I know it is hard to run around and do. You need to research pain specialists in your area, while you are going though all this running around. You need more help with pain. the 10's arn't enough. I was on morphine. I do not recommend any medication, but I know that helped me through the years. I still am on a very low dose after my fusions. Would you want to post MRI results? lots of people can help you to read them, maybe give you some more suggestions.
I also had that huge lump right behind my neck at C6-7. Your spine has curved, or reversed as did mine. It hurt like the devil too. don't lift anything, nothing at all, only make it worse.
Where are you located? maybe someone will know of good pain specialist in your area. Ask your pharmasist, who knows you, what doctors are good. Often they know who the legitate ones are, that really help folks. My friend at walgreens recommended one in particular, who is also a Physiosist, rehabilitation doctor. she is also my pain specialist. She works with the whole body, not just the pain issues, though she has kept my very comfortable. I am on vitamines now, suppliments to help strenghten all over.
You can PM, or private message me any time you need to. I sure feel bad that you have to go through this with young ones in tow. I was 53 when this happened to me. I was an artist that looked down into a magnafier for 30 years, and that did the damage to my spine. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you.
Different surgeons take different surgical approaches. Both my spinal fusions were anterior. Both probably hurt, but the docs. usually have a reason why they want one over the other. Ask them their reasoning. don't be afraid to speak up to the surgeon about your pain issues. He may be able to help you find a pain specialist that is more help to you. ginnie