Best Core Exercises for Beginners Post-Ostomy Surgery?

Hi everyone,  

I’m almost four months post-ileostomy surgery, and I’m looking to start rebuilding my core strength. I haven’t been able to exercise for years, so I’m starting from scratch and want to be really careful.  

One of my biggest concerns is overdoing it and increasing my risk of a hernia. I know core strength is important, but I’m not sure what exercises are safe to begin with.  

For those of you who have been through this, what gentle core exercises worked best for you in the early stages? Did you have guidance from a physical therapist, or were there any specific movements you avoided?  

Any advice or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!  

Thanks in advance!  

Hi Clara,

I highly recommend clinical pilates classes that Sarah Russell of the Ostomy Studio runs.

There's a video on the UOAA site with some core exercises that I've been using. 

https://www.ostomy.org/vlog-core-exercises-with-an-ostomy/

Thank you so much Susan, this is super helpful. 

Thanks Henry, I’ve never heard of Sarah Russell or the Ostomy studio but I will check it up. 

How to Manage Ostomy Leaks with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

I do lots of core exercises and I think a key to not getting a hernia for me is that I always wear a support belt when I’m doing them. I use a NuHope ostomy support belt with a prolapse cover. Even though I don’t have a prolapse… The prolapse cover is more for piece of mind and prevention I guess :)

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