What is the risk of work making things worse?

[suomalainen_66]

Hi, I have recently been diagnosed with type 1 chiari in mid June. I have only been notified of my condition from my family doctor, with no word yet from the regional neurosurgeon. I plan to see neurologists when I return to school in September.

Just wanted a second opinion if there is a significant risk that my job as a summer student labourer could make the problem worse.

My family doctor said I should be fine continuing work since the pain is not too bad when active and only severe when I cough extensively. I am a hard worker as I don't like slacking when I work, although I have slowed down and stopped lifting too heavy objects. Lucky for me my boss understands my problem and encourages me to take it easy, and take breaks whenever I need to.

Any knowledge or personal experience would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Mathew

[selmaS]

  Have u told ur NS that u have been feeling worse, if so what was his reply? Have u had a post op MRI?

Was this NS a Chiari specialist? Have u gone to get another opinion?

[puncheon]

Hello, I've had the decompression surgery and nothing has changed. After your surgeries has any of your symptoms improved? I'm asking because I know a lot of us go through similar situations, I'm just trying to figure out what's happening to me. I feel like sometimes I've gotten worse. I've applied for disability and have been denied,I have lawyers now, but I'm very worried that I will not win my case. I've asked the lawyers what's the likely hood of me winning and of course they say it's high but I'd like to know from someone who understands. My memory loss and confusion are getting worse and the stress of this isn't helping. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[suomalainen_66]

Alright thanks for the responses, will avoid all heavy lifting.

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

As Sexybare mentioned above, u will know ur limits but try not to lift heavy objects....I am not sure what ur summer job entails....but it may prove too much on hotter days.

Take note of how u feel the next day so u know what u may want to avoid.

For the most part we r told to avoid lifting, bending, roller coasters...etc (see full list in the Health Pages) It comes down to listening to ur body.

[Sexybare]

I worked on an assembly lin building car gears. Constant heavy lifting and nonstop repetitive movement. I didn't have symptoms start til about 5 months after I started and over the next 5 yrs continued to progress rapidly, now I'm on disability after 2 brain surgeries.
Just be careful, light work if possible. You'll know your limits.