Hi, I am new to posting on this site. I had a colostomy back in 2023. I have since developed a hernia which isn't too much of a problem but because I have lost 2 stone ( intentionally) I would like to firm up my tummy. I am no youngster so be kind with the advice.
Vicky
I know you have a colostomy, but the UK Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Association have had a good offer on for members for a few free online exercise classes with Sarah Russell, a sports exercise specialist and very highly qualified. I'm not sure if the offer is still running; it might be worth looking into. It's around £15 if I remember correctly to join IA, which could be money well spent just to be shown safe abdominal exercises for you to do with a hernia and stoma.
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Hello,
I was gifted with a colostomy 2 years ago. Developed a parastomal hernia after 4 months. I wear a support belt all the time. Only take it off when I shower. The belt has prevented my hernia from getting bigger/worse. But wearing a belt like I do, tends to weaken our core muscles.
I'm now researching exercise routines to strengthen my core and maintain basic strength and flexibility. I'm 67, and really noticed a decrease in basic strength. Like getting into/out of bed, car, couch.
Belts I wear are from Nu-Hope Corporation. They are comfortable and effective for me.
Hi, thanks for your reply. I am, after 6 months, seeing someone about a belt. I cannot believe the lack of support I have had since my operation. As I am a keen gardener, I know I need that belt more than anything. Once I have that, I will be looking at tummy exercises.
Hi, thanks for your reply. Once I get my belt sorted, which has taken too long, I will look into your suggestion.
If you have a hernia you should be careful about doing any exercise that requires core muscles. It can make your hernia worse. My surgeon told me to only ride the bike at the gym or walk the track. I am set up for hernia repair surgery in May. She says after that and after I heal I should be able to do core exercises again. But that is yet to be determined by me. But for now while I have the hernias I was told not to do core exercises.
Do you have contact details for the Pouch Association? Thanks.
Yo Beachboy. I have an ileostomy. Developed a prolapse. Two years of PT at different places with little results. Hard to bend down or get out of bed. It angered my "Little Buddy"; he'd stick his tongue out (stoma). Tried New Hope, free. Not enough support. Went to Stealth Belt. More for athleticism. Much wider, supports better. I climbed into a mineral hot tub, near Mt. Fuji, in October. It held everything in place, no leaks. First time post-op. AWESOME! Cost $100-130. I have 3.
Advice for Vicky: Find a PT that specializes in the abdomen. They treat incontinence, hernias, and prostates. In one year, I could do it all. Your core affects every physical thing you do. Your strength arises from it. I climbed Mt. Trashmore in Cedar Rapids.
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Check out the term "diastasis recti" - it concerns a series of exercises suitable for people with a stoma as we are not supposed to strengthen the horizontal tummy muscles. These exercises concentrate on the vertical muscles, and if you mention the exercise women do to reduce their "baby-bump" your physio should know what you mean. No planking, crunches or other "flat six-pack" type exercises!