Hi Busymom - I would talk to your doctor for an estimate. But even then, I'd see what you think you can handle. I pushed myself some in my inpatience to heel. I lifted a of case of water about 6 weeks into it and rapidly determined that wasn't such a great idea. I gave it more time and tried lifting 12pks first. I can tell you that now 10 months later, I can lift a case of paper at the office but my staff really frowns on it and hurries to help, and probably with good reason. If I were in your shoes, I'd play it by ear (or backpain?). Don't overdo it but maybe lift smaller items first just to see how it feels. I had a 5 year old want to sit in my lap a few months into it, and I asked her to climb up. That worked for both of us. Good luck to you!