This topic is about someone who had emergency abdominal surgery over a year ago, which led to a colostomy. They had a reversal surgery about six months ago, but they are still experiencing constant abdominal soreness. The pain feels like the cramping of an over-full bladder, is worse in the mornings or after sitting for a long time, and has been unchanged for about 18 months. Despite doctors suggesting it should resolve, the discomfort persists, and they are curious if others have experienced similar long-term soreness.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Understanding Post-Operative Sensations and Nerve Issues
- The intestines may not feel sharp pain but can sense stretching or pressure. Ongoing discomfort might be due to gas or bloating.
- Abdominal surgeries can affect nerves, leading to lingering nerve damage or numb patches, which might explain chronic soreness.

2. Healing Timelines and Follow-Up Care
- Some people experience significant tenderness for up to six months, and full recovery can take longer, especially after multiple surgeries.
- It's important to have follow-up investigations, like an endoscopic scope, to rule out any structural problems.

3. Bowel Function and Diet
- Regular bowel movements are crucial, as both constipation and diarrhea can increase intestinal pressure and pain.
- A diet with adequate fiber and strategies to reduce gas can help minimize bloating-related discomfort.

4. Considering Underlying Disease or Muscular Weakness
- If the original stoma was due to conditions like Crohn’s disease, persistent pain might indicate active disease rather than surgical injury.
- Post-surgical muscle weakness can cause pain during movements. Gradual strengthening exercises may be beneficial.

5. When to Seek Additional Medical Input
- Reversal surgery can irritate tissues, so persistent symptoms should be reassessed.
- If current healthcare providers dismiss concerns, seeking a second opinion from another colorectal surgeon or gastroenterologist might be helpful.