I'm 2 weeks post-colostomy surgery and looking for some sort of rehab/exercise program to follow to gradually build back to full activity. Is there any physiotherapist on this forum or anyone who was very active prior to their surgery that has a guideline to follow?
Even just exercises (low weight/body weight) that are deemed safe in terms of hernia prevention.
PaddyMan
Mar 02, 2024 1:27 am
aTraveler
Mar 02, 2024 3:05 am
Routines to ease you back in the flow if you are not currently seeing a PT:
https://www.convatec.com/ostomy-care/living-with-an-ostomy/lifestyle-support/me-recovery-series/
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Posted by: Immarsh
Hi Hatlady and all,
I've had my ostomy for over 50 years, since I was a kid, and didn't think I really needed to be part of the ostomy site. But once active, I came to realize, that although I may not need help at the time, I was able to reach out and help others in need. Back in the day, before stoma therapists, I use to visit new patients in the hospital or homes ... While professionals are great, it is also good to be able to speak with people with personal experience. I was a free member for awhile, but after writing often, I was given free months. I then started paying, and decided to just take lifetime membership. After all, I was going to have my ostomy for the rest of my life. I'm one of those people who can disappear for a few months at a time, but I'm always glad that the site is here, I can return and reconnect with old friends, and make new ones. This is an excellent site ... Best regards to all ... and Best wishes for a Healthy and Happy New Year.
ron in mich
Mar 02, 2024 2:01 pm
Hi Paddy, 2 weeks in is kind of early for working out. You may feel healed on the outside, but internally not so much. If anything, maybe just do some walking and gentle stretching.
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TerryLT
Mar 02, 2024 10:20 pm
Two weeks post-surgery is too early to be doing much more than walking, and walking is really good. Another two to four weeks and you could start some gentle exercise, being careful of lifting too much weight or stressing your abdominals too much. You are at very high risk for hernia and need to be cognizant of that. If you Google post-ostomy surgery exercises, you will find lots of info and videos on gentle routines to help you get back in shape. Depending on what your previous level of fitness was, you may not totally get back to where you were. Your risk of hernia will never go away, a sad reality. My post-ostomy workout is not what it used to be, but I'm happy with my fitness level.
Terry
IGGIE
Mar 03, 2024 12:47 pm
Take Ron and Terry's advice and let it all heal or you're going to pop it wide open. Regards, IGGIE
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