This topic is about finding safe ways to strengthen abdominal muscles after having a colostomy in childhood, which was later reversed. The person is dealing with weak abdominal muscles and scar tissue, causing discomfort. Since surgery isn't an option, building core strength is recommended to help relieve the pain. However, standard exercises cause discomfort, and the doctor hasn't provided specific guidance. Here are some suggestions from the community:

1. Consider asking your doctor for a referral to a physical or occupational therapist.
- These professionals can create gentle core routines tailored to your needs and help you progress safely.
- They have a better understanding of post-surgical and scar-tissue limitations compared to regular fitness trainers.

2. Try the "Just Noticeable Difference" method:
- Do the smallest amount of an exercise that you can barely feel, hold it briefly, then stop or switch to another movement.
- Gradually increase the load as your tolerance improves.

3. Start with low-impact, whole-body movements:
- Leslie Sansone's "Walk at Home" walking DVDs offer various levels, from beginner to more challenging, and are popular among those recovering from abdominal surgery.

4. Explore gentle Pilates-style core activation:
- Use a soft, partially inflated kids’ beach ball under one ankle while lying down. Slowly draw the ball toward you while pulling your navel inward, then roll it away.
- Progress to using both legs together, then add side movements.
- Doing this for about 20 minutes while watching TV can help maintain consistency.

5. Try balance-cushion exercises:
- Place an air-filled cushion on a stable stool or chair, sit, and lift both feet (or one foot at a time) off the floor, engaging your abdominal muscles to hold balance.
- Increase difficulty by extending your arms or alternating leg lifts. Keeping the cushion at your desk can encourage daily use.

6. General recovery tips from those with long-term experience:
- Activities like swimming, cycling, and slow, controlled walking can help rebuild core support without putting too much strain on your body.
- Progress may be slow, and setbacks are normal, but consistent work guided by a therapist can restore strength and improve gait, balance, and pain levels.