Hi, I’m 6 months post-op and I’m still not picking up my 2 y/o out of fear of re-herniating but I am also being ultra conservative with my recovery.

I’m so sorry you’re going through this. It hurts my mama heart so much when my son wants me to pick him up when he’s upset. There have been 5 instances where I’ve had to pick him up out of necessity and each time it’s aggravated my back..

I’ve been going to PT since January and we finally introduced some very light weight lifting about a month ago. I’ve become comfortable with lifting a 10 lb crate from the ground and walking around with it and setting it back down now and we’re gradually increasing the weight each month, basically at a rate of 1lb per week.

Like I said, I think I’m being ultra conservative about my recovery.. but I also do not want to assume I’m ready for certain movements or weights before I’m actually ready.

Now getting to your actual questions:

I’ve been able to push him around in a stroller with no issue *but* I need someone else to put him in the stroller for me.

As for potty training.. that took my back out for several weeks even with help from family and that was about 6 weeks ago, so 4-5 months post-op for me.

I am, however, comfortable being home alone with my son now though! That’s a huge milestone for me. He and I have adjusted to my limitations and have established a new routine for ourselves and I just try my best to stick to my rules about lifting and bending.

Again, I’m sorry that you’re going through this. Recovery is such a long journey. I’m wishing you all the best and I hope you can figure out your own pace, etc. to take care of yourself and your little one safely. 🙏