I was recently diagnosed with chiari and I have a one year old daughter. I was wondering. When I have surgery, will I be able to lift or carry her within a few weeks? 
She weighs 24 pounds.
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@Natniss98 I would encourage you to speak to your surgeon. That said, I would think that there would be lifting and carrying restrictions of less than 10 pounds, for at least the first few weeks. If you can, message your doctor’s office through the patient portal. It’s been the best way for me to get information and answers in a timely fashion.
Sharon from ModSupport
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I would plan on having live in assistance for baby and house care for at least the first 2 months with flexibility to go longer. Decompression surgery is a major surgery and it is worth looking after yourself and your baby as best as possible. Fatigue is a big part of recovering from surgery and it does not respond well to overdoing it. Babies do not understand when mommy needs to have a rest!
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Thank you.
Hi,
I had decompression surgery when my son was 18 months. My family rotated watching him during the day and his dad took care of him after work, but that was only for 6 weeks. I had to dive in right after… It wasn’t easy, the fatigue is what I struggled with most. If you can get the help (or afford it if you can’t) I definitely recommend it! If not, you’ve got this! Changing diapers on a lower surface (like a bed) or even on the floor on a mat so you don’t have to lift, might be a good idea? Also, feeding on the floor, having your daughter in a non slip booster seat (like the bumbo chairs) where she can be strapped in might work too. I would limit what you lift as much as possible and gradually increase. Treat your body with kindness, I sure didn’t and even lifted a couch by myself! I’m lucky I’m ok. Have you considered speaking to a physiotherapist or physical therapist or even a personal trainer?
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Thank you!! I’m still nursing her right now which I will probably wait for surgery when she’s done breastfeeding. I have thought about it but haven’t looked into it yet. Do you have any thoughts on it?
I am not sure your surgeon would recommend either. I had difficulty hold my head up - the swelling and pain in my neck and shoulders was pretty intense. I also had physical therapy 3 times a week to learn how to stretch my neck and shoulder muscles without causing damage to the surgery site.
It is a long road to recovery. Prayers for a speedy recovery!
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