Point guard T.J. Ford, sidelined for more than a year with a bruised spinal cord, has medical clearance to take part in full-contact basketball for the Milwaukee Bucks.

Ford underwent cervical spine surgery in May 2004, three months after the rookie was injured during a game against Minnesota. He has been in rehabilitation ever since.

A statement Monday from Dr. Robert Watkins of the Los Angeles Spine Surgery Institute, said Ford has made a complete recovery.

"His prognosis is excellent for a normal basketball career," said Watkins, who performed the surgery.

Ford called it great news.

"I can't wait to get out on the floor and run up and down the court with my teammates," he said.