Disk Herniation with Spondylolisthesis and Lytic Defect!

[Four Litre]

I injured my back as a student - 25+ years ago and after a few years of agony it settled down and it seemed to only return if I do something silly, like digging a hole or lifting something really awkward. I've been going to the gym for years and big (ish) weights didn't both it either with correct posture.

Come lockdown its gone nuts, kills me all the time, feels like somebody hit me across the lower spine with an iron bar, haven't got pain down my legs so one thing to be happy about.

I've had an MRI and the doc confirmed what I already knew about the Disk Herniation and grade 1 Spondylolisthesis, however he's also mentioned a Lytic defect which having looked online looks like a fracture.

He's mentioned that I would be a candidate for fusion of L5 S1, but it sounds very drastic and it would be a point of no return.

I read the spinal fusion thread and it didn't fill me with enthusiasm. I still exercise (walking as far as I can) but cant do much compared to 6+ months ago.

Wondering if fusion is the way to go, I'm officially middle aged and not overweight etc. so not sure what else I can do. I've just had a steroid injection with nerve block but cant say I notice the difference.