This topic is about someone who is four months into their recovery after a colostomy reversal. They are sharing their experiences with physical healing, managing gas pain, adjusting activity levels, and dealing with ongoing anxiety. Here’s a summary of their journey and some advice they’ve received:

- They experience no constant pain but do have occasional stabbing rectal pain when sitting or passing gas, which quickly goes away.
- Before bowel movements, they feel some lower-abdominal pain or pressure. Their stool consistency is normal, but it takes longer to empty their bowels, and they have to push harder to pass gas.
- There is some residual soreness at the site of the former stoma and deep lower-left abdominal pain, which seems to be affected by their sleeping position.
- Sitting for long periods causes their tailbone to ache, likely due to weight loss and the loss of natural padding.
- They can walk 4 to 6 miles daily with an abdominal binder and feel no fatigue, but they avoid running and heavy lifting to prevent a hernia recurrence.
- Hiking with a large dog is manageable, but they still avoid strenuous exercise.
- They haven’t returned to their pre-surgery diet due to fear of blockages and continue to experience significant weight loss.
- The main challenge is severe, persistent anxiety about food and potential complications, for which they are currently in therapy.

Additional insights and advice include:

1. Mild soreness and occasional twinges, especially near the old stoma, are common for many months, sometimes up to a year, after reversal or hernia repair.
2. Brisk walking is recommended over running to protect the joints, and continuing the walking routine is encouraged if it feels comfortable.
3. Avoid heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling until the surgeon gives the all-clear to reduce the risk of hernia.
4. Tailbone soreness and loss of padding after weight loss are typical; using cushions or changing positions frequently can help.
5. Gas may feel different after surgery; if it becomes bothersome, over-the-counter anti-gas remedies can be considered.
6. It can take 6 to 12 months for the bowel to adapt; temporary mucus, sensitivity, and odd sensations often improve over time.
7. Gradually increasing activity, staying alert for any concerning symptoms, and maintaining regular follow-ups with the GI/surgeon are encouraged.
8. Mental recovery can take longer than physical healing; ongoing therapy and patience are important. Many people share similar fears, and anxiety often eases as confidence grows.