Hang in there MK...modification is the key.
Welcome to Taiji! HSK has a solid point. About a little more than a year ago I was diagnosed with severe degenerative disc issues of my L4 and L5, I was in excruciating pain almost every day and had to quit working out/training for several months.
It's very depressing to hear this kind of info, I was then about 41 and really getting into my training. Up till then felt the best I had in years. After seeing some specialists, I did some physical therapy, acupuncture, took some medication for pain and inflammation. I'm sure they're gonna offer you some surgical options...do your homework, ask lots of questions, and find the best specialist available. To this day, I have sciatic nerve pain on a regular basis and have to take pain meds.
The human body is an amazing thing, given time you'll be surprised at your ability to recover. Eat well, modify your training, go slow.
For me, I went to more of a boxing style training, I am able to do low leg kicks and push kicks but round house, side kicks to the head and torso area just put too much torque on my back. I've found that stationary bike or spin classes are better for me than jogging or stair work...etc.
You will be able to find something that will work for you even in a 'real' environment MK. I work in a Behavioral Ward, where I physically have to move patients defend myself and others against assault...just the other week I used my chin to try and break this guys fist! Don't try that one at home.
Looking for some new training in either WC or Tai Chi or both...these are styles that I can modify for my limitations. Like Gene said, feel free to PM me if you have any questions.
PS You'll just have to find another way to roll around with some sailors.
"if its ok for shaolin wuseng to break his vow then its ok for me to sneak behind your house at 3 in the morning and bang your dog if buddha is in your heart then its ok"-Bawang
"I get what you have said in the past, but we are not intuitive fighters. As instinctive fighters, we can chuck spears and claw and bite. We are not instinctively god at punching or kicking."-Drake
"Princess? LMAO hammer you are such a pr^t"-Frost