Not a doc and I don't play one:

I've suffered a compressioin fracture of L1, herniation of Disks L1/L2 and L2/L3, spinal stinosis(sp?) of L1, and microdiscectomy of disk L1/L2. An L1/L2 fusion is in my future.

"Sitting" as in, on a chair, or anything that flattens your natural spinal curve is one of the worst things you can do for your back. Make sure you get yourself a lumbar support and only use furniture that allows or encourages healthy posture.

I wouldn't hesitate to ask your doctor for electronic imaging, MRI. It's the only way they can actually and definatively know for sure what's going on inside.

Anti-inflams may be your friend. I personally, attempt to avoid other straight pain killers. I find I recover better by respecting my bodies pain signals, instead of masking them and doing things that would otherwise cause discomfort. Anti-inflams seem to help lessen discomfort without blocking pain.

Respect your back. Heal well and really, really attempt to come back slowly whilst listening to your bodies feedback. Once healthy again, lots of core strengthening exercises, crunchs, side, front and back planks, leg curls on a sports ball, leg lifts, etc. The stronger the muscles supporting your back are, the better off you will be and less likely to re-injure.