physical attributes

[LetsChill]

I was born with Familial Spastic Paraparesis. It is a genetic progressive disorder that involves muscle breakdown of the shin muscles and tightening of the hamstrings related to nerve degeneration. Constant sitting or lack of movement makes the hamstrings tighter and walking difficult but possible with a very tight gait. I am concerned that if I go after becoming a CRNA, I will be stuck in a chair in a little corner of the OR and won't be able to move for hours. That would only worsen my condition, which would not be acceptable. Is this something to be worried about or am I thinking about the details of being a CRNA too much?

[RedCell]

I was born with Familial Spastic Paraparesis. It is a genetic progressive disorder that involves muscle breakdown of the shin muscles and tightening of the hamstrings related to nerve degeneration. Constant sitting or lack of movement makes the hamstrings tighter and walking difficult but possible with a very tight gait. I am concerned that if I go after becoming a CRNA, I will be stuck in a chair in a little corner of the OR and won't be able to move for hours. That would only worsen my condition, which would not be acceptable. Is this something to be worried about or am I thinking about the details of being a CRNA too much?

The only thing you will get by posting this kind of question are individual opinions from posters who have never met you. You are the only one qualified to set your own limitiations. The best advice would be to go spend a few days with more than one anesthesia provider. See what they do, look at the environment they work in, sum it all up and then apply it to your personal situation.

[My_brain_hurts]

Wow, that's a really good question. I mean, you can stand up at your station, stretch the legs and such, but I don't know if that's what you mean. I'm not yet in clinicals. Have you spoken with your own doctor or the program directors of the programs you are interested in? It sounds like this does not at all impact your ability to care for pts so much as your own personal health, comfort, and wellbeing (which is super important!!!). What I mean is, it sounds like you're wanting to know how people with similar conditions handle being in the anesthetist role.

I wish I could offer more insight. Best of luck to you. I hope someone with a better understanding than myself will repsond. If you find out more info somewhere else, share if you feel comfortable. I'm sure others have similar questions.

[LetsChill]

Thanks for the replies.

[loveanesthesia]

The advice to go to the OR and see the environment is the best thing you can do. Their is no requirement to sit, you can move around in your area as a general rule. You do need to be physically mobile to administer anesthesia.