- No lifting more than 2 pounds for the first 4 weeks, for patients over 14 no lifting more than 5 pounds for one month after surgery.
- May gradually increase to 5-8 pounds after 4 weeks.
- 2 months after surgery gradually increase to 10-15 pounds
- Minimize sitting periods to no more than 45 minutes at a time without a break and for some patients they may only tolerate shorter periods of time. Patient should not sit for longer than what is comfortable.
- Minimize bending and twisting for first 4-8 weeks after surgery to preserve comfort level and ensure proper healing of the incision.
- Walk as tolerated, limit running for 4 weeks after surgery
- No gym class, no playground, no sports for 4-6 weeks and may need to extend this to 8-12 weeks depending on comfort level. No contact sports for 6 months.
- May need rest periods in which he/she lays down throughout the school day
- Patient may return to limited hours at school 2-4 weeks after surgery depending on how they are feeling and tolerating their symptoms.
Other Considerations for Returning to School Activities
- Check with the school for options to join the class via Skype or other means from home as desired.
- Request another set of books at school, so the patient does not have to carry books back and forth to school.
- Make teachers aware there may be times when the patient will want to stand instead of sitting in class.
- If the bus ride is too rough for the patient, they may prefer to ride to and from school in a car for greater comfort.
- Having a cushion to sit on at school should be available if needed.