I had exactly what you describe but in episodes that would lessen in severity and then return. I had one injection to L2-L3 (L4-L5 was too constricted to allow the needle in. The timing was while the radiculopathy episode was waning so not sure it helped. My spine specialist was willing to do one more 6 months later when another episode hit. He also wanted me to consult a neurosurgeon colleague in the spine clinic. I did so and scheduled surgery at that 90 minute consult. I had anterolisthesis and dangerous degree of movement of the L4over L5 (shown in X-rays done with your back extended). I needed that to be stabilized since a large additional movement could be catastrophic. My surgery completely solved my leg and butt pain. I could walk pain free the day after surgery. I am 4 months out and gradually getting back to normal level of activity. Still so grateful for the surgery which was done with an orthopedic spine specialist attending and 3rd year neuroscience fellow assisting. I recommend finding a surgeon who spends time to explain your individual situation thoroughly. Mine along with his team spent nearly as long before surgery as during surgery (5 hours) explaining to my husband and me. They accurately predicted the hallmarks of my recovery. Best wishes. We are all different challenges but yours sounds so much like mine I had to write!