swimminhg after surgery

[JESSICAH1230]

So here in Oregon our Summers are short so its been hot ans I want to gi swimming. When can I? Ill be askin my ns on Wednesday when I get the stitches removed but its been in the 80's for Weeks. Im 9 days post op. I have been hanging out inside as first sittin and relaxing outside reminds me of smoking and I haven't smoked in 10 days but in so freakin bored

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

Thanks, but my surgery was 3 yrs ago, I healed nicely, this thread is about Jessicah and she had skin harvested from her thigh which will make a difference as to when she may go in,

I was suggesting she might walk in the water, or float on a floating chair, but with the incision on her leg, she is best to wait for her Dr to review it first,.

I saw in ur profile ur sister had the surgery?....not u?

[hulagirl4737]

Hey Selma,

Its recommended to not swim for 4 weeks post-op.  Even after that, if you are particularly "scabby," i'd avoid submerging too long.  good luck wtih your recovery!

[sweetjen680]

I can't remember how long the doctor told me for no swimming.  I know I couldn't take a bath for 2 weeks, only shower.  I want to say a month, but I would ask your ns.  

[selmaS]

  Oh I forgot u had a patch harvested from there, mine was from my scalp......I am glad u made that decision to not smoke again....I pray for all smokers to get the strength to quit. As I do know how it can affect not only their health but those around them too.

I would wait until u see ur Dr to know if ur incision on ur thigh is ok and if going in the pool water is safe.

  I hope u get the go ahead soon : )

[JESSICAH1230]

Thanks Selma. Im not going to smoke.everagian just being outside reminds me of it so I wanted to preoccupy myself in the pool lol. I figured I couldnt go under water because the incision and that is why I was concerned to cause the incision on my thigh....

[selmaS]

  Hi, if u went 10 days no smoking I would try to continue as it is not a healthy habit to have as I am sure u r aware, and for those with chiari it shrinks the vessels and can make some of our issues worse...so something to consider.

As for the pool, I would think this early in recovery u may be able to walk around or float in the pool.....to actually swim may affect ur neck and shoulder area ...so I would not do that....but to lay on a float or a floating chair may be a nice relaxing way for u to enjoy ur summer.

I would not go under water either....JMHO....

And always make sure y have a swim buddy, never go alone : )