On the first afternoon of surgery, your child may feel numbness in his or her legs and in the area of the body below the waist. Your child may say he or she cannot feel their legs.
Foam booties will be given to your child to protect the heels. These special slippers must be worn at all times while your child is in bed. When sensation returns to the legs and feet, your child may stop wearing the booties except when sleeping.
The morning after surgery, your child should be able to move his or her legs and be able to walk. Sitting in the chair, walking and being held can be done with the help of your nurse. If your child has an epidural, it will not prevent you from holding and cuddling him or her.
Having an epidural may cause itching of the skin. Your child might also complain of an upset stomach. Medications can be given to your child to reduce itching or nausea. It is important to let your nurse or a member of the pain treatment service know if nausea or itching becomes a problem.