I live in Houston and will be getting sleeved next Wednesday 7/19 in New Orleans. I have a flight back to Houston on July 31st, should I be able to lift a small carry on bag by then? I'm staying with my mom to recover for the first week or so and I don't have any clothes at her house and don't want to leave anything there. It's small enough to go under the seat so I don't have to lift it but my mom is terrified that carrying anything heavier than my purse will hurt me.

I don't think you should think about picking anything over 10 lbs up and certainly not lifting it up and over your head. Ship what you need to your moms house now so you don't worry.

You could always have you Mother ship your case in a box by ups or fed ex to your home then you can open the box and luggage to take your clothes out one at a time so your not lifting a full box or small suitcase.

I agree, it's not a good idea to even pull it behind you. Mailing is a good idea.