Peter, save all your energy to fight the "system" smartly and legally! There may be many things already in your favor.
Last year, I found out that if I had injured myself at work, workers comp would have paid for my ADR procedure. But I fell in my driveway, so I paid for it out of pocket.
If you haven't already found a good lawyer, there are several ways to do so. You can call the Mass Bar Association for a referral, or there are several legal professionals on this forum that may be able to guide you as well.
It's bad enough losing your job because of a serious back problem, your "colleagues" disrespect is unfortunate and ignorant! Hang tough buddie, you are already on the road to wellness...