u/Icy-Setting-2090

Anyone have any success with L5/S1 fusion? Diagnosed with spondylolisthesis, bilateral pars fractures and severe foraminal stenosis at that level about 4 years ago. 56m, had always been in good shape and active biking, hiking, skiing,etc. backed away from that stuff and have tried to manage through PT, Core exercises and lifestyle modifications. Was doing okay until about 6 months ago when sciatic nerve pain has become constant through my hamstrings and calfs. Also constant foot numbness. Dr is telling me to do a fusion and at this point I agree. The back pain sucks, but the leg pain is the main issue. Can't walk or do much with it occurring. Tired of waking at 2 am with calf muscle in full cramp which is quite painful and makes it so I can't even get out of bed until it subsides. Anyway, anyone have success with L5/s1 fusion and get back to enjoying life? I have also done several steroid injections which initially helped but not anymore. Only pain meds I've really taken is gabapentin and ibuprofen. Also, I know recovery sucks, but is it manageable by yourself for the first couple weeks or do you absolutely need someone's help?