I injured L4&L5, with a ladder, was in a wheel chair for about 9 months, and two back surgeries later, I was eventually able to walk, just barely.
I eventually bought a home gym (Bodycraft K2) with cables. I use a belt and secure myself to the bench and then do rows on my back using the cables. I also do squats on the K2, but it is a machine, so that it is very controlled, and I am very careful. I just kept working my way up and now I am squatting 200lbs and looking for more. I will never be able to do that with free weights as the surgeries removed some bone, and I may never walk if I screw up. I can't do deadlifts either, but I do very slow hyperextensions and I have worked up to 60lbs. I am really slow, careful and listen to my body. I believe just using light weights aided the recovery process.
You may have to get something like Celebrex or equivalent to help some of the inflammation, so that you can heal. Celebrex is an NSAID of the COX-2 inhibitor class, prescription only. Aleve is an over the counter NSAID. Be aware though that some have the theory that NSAID's may very slightly hinder gains. I did not find any scientific proof, so it may or may not be true. But for me I have no choice anyway.
So in summary, I suggest using a machine and cables for the anything that hurts your back. Light weights until it heals, if it hurts, less weight. IMO at least moving improves the healing. Consider a NSAID to help with inflammation, so that it will heal faster.
A herniated disk can be serious, I wouldn't push it. Take care of yourself.
I hope you feel better!
