Yes you can ride again, and you should feel much better as well.. In 2009 I had surgery to my L4-5 for Spondleothesis (sp?). Caused by an injury during adolescence that didnt affect me till I turned 49. Needed 2 fusions, and a rod and screws to fix it. I will say to check with multiply drs until you find one you like.. I ended up with a 30 something dr that was skilled in endoscopic (small incensions). Most wanted to filet me open with a 10" cut, with this dr I had a 1" cut in my stomach, and a 1" cut on my lower back. I was out of the hospital on day 3, walking a mile on day 7, 5 miles by day 14, and riding 50 miles by day 21. Best decision I ever made. Pain free since the surgery. I now can ride 300 miles non stop with no pain.