I had three herniated discs and nerve compression. Did one year of physio three times a week, and it didn't help. Had a discectomy and a laminectomy and it didn't help. Did two more years of physio after the surgery to no avail. I can ride a mtb for thirty to forty minutes and my back is okay. I also have tennis elbow in both elbows which I finally had surgery on them the past 4 months. The elbows wouldn't allow me to ride, just crazy pain, and they are not much better after the surgeries. I just ordered a Townie 21 in the hopes that it will allow me to ride without elbow pain. I just hope the riding position doesn't put too much strain on my back so I can take longer rides. I think it all comes down to each individual as far as if you can ride. Good luck.