I was diagnosed with degenerative spondylolisthesis last year. I am older (75 yo) but was very active: daily gym workout, mountain bike, ski, travel, etc.. My neurosurgeon recommended an L4-L5 fusion. After doing a fair amount of research, I agreed. October, 2022 had the fusion. Long story short, turns out my surgeon damaged my nerve when he inserted the right L5 pedicle screw into the nerve. Yes, take your time; do the research. Turns out there are several techniques used for pedicle screw placement; my sugeon used the free-hand method, and didn't work out that well for me. Since my surgery, I have not been able to walk without walking sticks or a cane. Good luck to you, my friend.