I had back surgery in June. I'm still recuperating, can't sit for long and not allowed to bend or lift. Recovery time may take a year.
Your health is the most important thing. I had two knee ops this summer and have been off work without any form of disability for six months now. I will not go back to work until I am at 100%, to me, its not worth it. Imagine you injure yourself further? You know your own limitations, and eight hours a day is a lot just to leap into if you are still having back problems.