Back Problems

islandnutshel

Everyone has back problems. I can sympathize. It's awful, frustrating, debilitating. So my story will sound familiar. I am a little over 200 pounds on a solid Irish frame that hides weight well. But I have 3 disc in my back that are "degenerating" fast. I was just recovering from 2 weeks of bed rest from my annual "back attack" and as I was getting mobile I fell down 3 steps landed on the side of my foot and sprained my ankle rather badly. Probably 3 months in this air cast. Two months off work at least.
I want to know please that it is possible to lose weight by reasonably reducing calories. I have always been able to exercise myself thinner. Now I am a sloth, I want someone to reassure me it is possible to lose weight by just diet.
I am eating approx 1500 cal a day of healthy food, fruit, veg, LF dairy. I am celiac so baked goods are no longer tempting. But for other health reasons I have to keep up my nutrients and iron levels. Any suggestions, advice, or re-assurances would be a gift.
It's funny but any ideas on exercises that don't involve standing or back strain?
Hope someone's out there.
Shel