This topic is about finding ways to protect a new ileostomy while engaging in heavy physical work, such as handling large tires. The main concern is avoiding damage to the stoma or the pouching system during such activities. Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. **Understanding What Needs Protection**: It's important to know whether you need to protect the stoma itself, the pouching system, or both. Generally, the stoma is quite tough, but the pouching system can be more vulnerable to damage.

2. **Stoma Toughness and Care**: Stomas are resilient, and most people can return to full activity. Use common sense and be mindful of the stoma's position to prevent accidental bumps or knocks.

3. **Using a Guard or Belt**: If there's a risk of direct impact to the abdomen from equipment or tools, using a guard like the Stomaplex can be beneficial. However, guards typically protect only the stoma, not the entire pouch.

4. **Preventing Parastomal Hernia**: After surgery, the abdominal wall is weaker, increasing the risk of hernias. It's important to engage your core muscles when lifting and to follow your company's lifting protocols, adding extra caution due to the surgery.

5. **Support Options**:
- Consider using a neoprene weight-lifting belt for additional abdominal support.
- Ostomy support belts, such as those from Stealth Belt or Active Support Belts, can provide extra security.
- Elastic belts from the pouch manufacturer that clip to the flange can also be helpful.
- Some people find control-top panty girdles or light-control underwear effective for support.

6. **Fit and Comfort Adjustments**: Pairing the Stomaplex guard with a wider neoprene belt, as you are doing, can help distribute pressure evenly and prevent the guard from catching on clothing.

7. **Professional Follow-up**: It's crucial to maintain contact with your enterostomal nurse or inform your GP or surgeon if you're having trouble reaching them. Ongoing professional support is essential for managing your ostomy effectively.