I can't put him down

I used to have the easiest baby imaginable....used to! He's the youngest of three so right from the get-go he learned to go with the flow. Never made a peep unless he needed something and even then he was very easy to read. Two and a half months of pure ease! Well then he came down with RSV and spent 3 days in the hospital. He had undivided attention the whole time and was held for a majority of it. Guess what, we've been home over a week and he now insists on being held alllllll day long. No swing, no bouncy seat, no play mat, no nothing except for someone's arms. He wouldn't even nap unless he was held for several days, but that seems to be getting better slowly and he sleeps fine at night. Now what can I do about this holding problem during the day? Don't get me wrong I love doing so and all, but I have two other young children that need my attention as well. I have a carrier, but I also have a bad back so I can only use it for so long.

How do I re-teach him that he can be independent? I'm not a fan of CIO, fyi. I let him fuss for a bit if I'm in the middle of something, but I can't let him scream.

I would try having him on the floor with toys playing with him and just gradually distant yourself during the playing. That might help. Other than that I don't know what to say.

You could try wearing him. Try a wrap so he feels secure like it is someones arms.