We're all different when it comes to backs. One size does not fit all.
If your unsure about surgery I'd say go down the physio route in a big way while your deciding.
Try both, normal and a sports physio and think about a trainer and the use of light weights.
When I say we are all different. I like others have back pain controlled by pills for the last 15 years.
This last 12 months I've taken up stand up jet skiing. (and I'm old) It's helped amazingly because it works all your core muscles, which hold every thing together..