@amywood20
Is your head yet?
I stopped lifting until the PT said it was safe and then I used very light weights and few reps.
I built up slowly.
Yes, surgery is sometimes needed.
For me, after more than a decade of chronic pain, it was my time surgery.
Since I waited so long, I developed severe nerve damage in my legs and some in my arms.
Therefore, my PERSONAL suggestion is to see a neurologist and have an EMG, nerve test, to make sure you aren't doing any irreversible damage by waiting.
Good luck!
Ronnie