Post-op expectations

[Jess]

I had decompression surgery for Chiari on March 30. I have been out of work since that time. I am still so tired from the surgery and having pain still. I was just wondering others experiences with surgery. How long did it take for people to function normally again with daily activities and going back to work? I got no info from the surgeon. I was simply discharged and told to come back in three months. I was also very physically active with regard to exercising before the Chiari got to bad. Does anyone know if a person is able to exercise normally without pain after surgery? Any feedback would be great.

[Rozia]

Who did your Surgery ?

[Jess]

Dr Rekate in Arizona did my surgery

[pringlec]

Hi Jess, sorry you are still hurting. It took me a long time to recover and I hurt pretty bad for several months. I had alot of problems with balance, fell all the time, even six months after my surgery. Has this been an issue for you? I would say I could have probably went back to work about six months into my recovery but was fortunately able to stay home with my kids for a couple of years. As far as normal daily activities, it took awhile. I would try to do too much and then would pay for it. I really had to learn to take it easy and work my way back slowly. I use to teach aerobics prior to getting sick but have not been able to tolerate it sense my surgery in 2003. Running or anything involving bouncing or turning makes me very ill (vertigo and headaches). I have had to learn to be satisfied with walking and stationary biking. Hopefully that will not be the case for you. Unfortunately I don't believe things are ever quite the same after the onset of Chiari symptoms. We just have to make the best of what we can do. I would highly recommend talking to your surgeon/nuero prior to any physical activities, especially this soon after surgery. Hope this helped. Carri

[Jess]

Thank you so much Carri, your description put everything into perspective because it is the same as what I am going through also minus an item or two. The only thing is, I am going back to work July 1st. I hope it doesn't backfire on me.

[pringlec]

Hi Jess, I'm glad you have another month before returning to work, alot could improve by then. Keep me informed on how you are doing and take it easy. Carri :)