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Unless you have unlimited start up money it is really hard these days to open a business with employees.  Taxes, medical, workers comp and all the specialty people you need to manage all that properly is ridiculous.  I have run a home businesses over the years and mostly it was just a way to write off cool computer equipment I was using.  Made some cash but had a full time job also that paid the bills.  Only worked because I was doing the work and my wife was doing the bookkeeping. 

I am aware of your injuries.  There is a good possibility you will aggravate old injuries or make new ones if you choose a physically demanding job.   I will just tell you it is not worth it. 

Hope you come up with something cool.

I have a lifetime membership with TechShop.  My office, wifi, software upgrades, computer, desk, lights, electricity, herbal tea and popcorn, metal and wood shop,,, etc. are all paid for.  (as long as they are in business, of course)

I design on Inventor.  Run SprutCam for cad.   Thumbdrive into the cnc Tormach at TechShop.  It's .... fun.   I am considering it again.

After 18 years of running my own business I could never go back. Don't be afraid of employees. You cannot grow a business by yourself.

Rock man, SF TechShop?

I'm 59.  This June I hope to quit the day job in health care.  I'll run a design business, or I'll panhandle. 

  I can totally picture you panhandling with your floppy hat on and your nose covered with white sun block. Holding up a sign stating
"Will work for Bait"