AMBULATION
Short statured ambulation can be difficult. Some patients may need a walker, or may not be able to ambulate. Some patients who were previously able to ambulate may not be able to with a halo, due to the weight of the halo.

Pain medication may also affect balance and physical strength.

Comfort levels will increase with changing positions from lying to standing and walking.

If your patient is able, walking around the house should be come part of the daily routine during the post-operative period, if allowed by your doctor. Safety is paramount to prevent falls and slips.Take extra time going up and down stairs or navigating uneven ground.

Any obstacles around the house should be avoided.

It is a good idea to take your time, and move at a normal pace. Any movement the generates pain or uneasiness should be avoided.

Avoid patient bending forward to grab objects, such as items that have fallen to the floor. It is helpful to have an adaptive device to help to reach and pick up objects.

Parents of toddlers need to be aware of their child’s temperament, especially during the “terrible twos”. Temper tantrums that are expressed with throwing oneself on the floor need to be avoided if possible.

ACTIVITIES
Precautions and activities may change based on healing and length of time in the halo. Here are some safe and creative ideas for children:

• Filling a large plastic box with dried beans and cups & spoons...NO SANDBOXES!
• Painting, drawing, coloring
• Fingernail painting for girls

If you find your child has more energy at a certain time of day, focus on using these moments to their fullest.

A halo SHOULD NOT HURT, and the vest SHOULD NOT RUB! If this occurs, contact your health provider.

EATING
To avoid choking for small children, cut the following foods into very small pieces:

• grapes
• hotdogs
• spaghetti
• fruit

For older children or adolescents and adults, avoid chewing gum or laughing while eating. Be conscious of chewing throughly before swallowing.

Try to avoid dropping food or fluids down into the vest while eating or drinking. Crackers, crispy flaky foods, and potato chips are susceptible to this. To help with this, place a towel or a bib over the vest.

A straw may also be useful for young children who tend to tilt their head back while drinking liquids. They will no longer be able to do this while wearing a halo.