Your symptoms are the typical slow progression of degeneration from an isthmic spondylo at L5-S1. In my opinion, the TLIF is the appropriate answer to this disorder. The surgeon has to be meticulous and “OCD” in surgery but the ultimate outcome can be very good. Expect immediate nerve pain relief, 6 months for your back to feel normal and a year to feel like you never had surgery. A one level TLIF at L5-S1, when healed is consistent with olympic level activity.
Dr. Corenman