I have Degenerative Disc Disease in my neck and back and Scoliosis...?

I have been having severe right shoulder pain for as long as I can remember. It feels like burning and stabbing and my neck and shoulder feel really tight. Now it is painful when I move my arm. I take a ton of Ibuprofen and I am icing it all the time. My doctor has decided to finally refer me to an orthopedic doctor. Does the DDD have anything to do with the shoulder pain? I have a very high tolerence to pain and I am miserable. This shoulder pain makes my back pain seem like a walk in the park... I have no idea what will happen once I see the orthopedic doctor. I am afraid that my doctor has let this go for too long and there is going to be damage that will require surgery ( I have seen her quite a few times for the same issue) . Any information, thoughts would be appreciated.