bilateral foraminal stenosis from osteophytes

I have been having pain in my neck/back/between shoulder blades and intermittent pain down both arms for about 3 months.  I have been doing conservative treatment for 2 months with no results.  MRI showed 'moderate bilateral C5-6 foraminal stenosis from osteophytes.'  I am waiting to see a neurosurgeon, but in talking with other medical professionals, it seems that even the surgery may not help.  If it does help, it would only provide temporary relief until the osteophytes grew back and perhaps cause even more problems.  Also read in a study that 5 years down the road, whether I have the surgery or not, I would essentially be in the same position.  Does anyone have any information that would say to have surgery for sure?  At this point, I am thinking more along the lines of injections to help manage the pain.  Also, I am a pilot and I was told that flying can actually cause the osteophytes to grow at a faster rate due to poor posture, egronomics, etc.  Does anyone know anything about the affects on aviation physiology with this condition?  Thank you!