If someone has a medical weight restriction do they mean each arm. like 10 pounds, do they mean 10 pounds each arm or total weight?

I had a stomach ulcer rupture and had surgery to correct it. I was given a list of restrictions when I left the hospital, diet, activity, etc. A 10 pound weight restriction was on the list. I have my first post surgery appointment on Tuesday. But have Easter this weekend with very young relatives that I would like to be able to pick up and hold. I do not want to rip any stitches out.