Exercising with a stoma, and why it’s important
Being fit can make your pouch fit even better
A great side effect of exercising – and for many people the main reason for exercise in the first place – is weight-loss or weight-maintenance. Depending on the shape of your stoma a firmer, flatter abdomen could make it easier to get a tight fit from your ostomy appliance, thereby minimizing leakage risks.
So, by exercising and losing weight, there is a good chance you can reduce some of the problems you might have otherwise had.
Things to be aware of
Before exercising, be sure to empty your pouch for greater freedom of movement and a reduced risk of leakage. And make sure you drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise.
Until your stoma and abdominal area are fully healed, strenuous activities can put you at risk of a hernia. Simple exercise will help, however you should avoid any kind of heavy lifting for the first six to eight weeks after your surgery. The Core 4 is a good set of exercises to start with.
Later on, there are nearly no limits to what you can do, as long as you take the right precautions. But you should always ask your doctor or stoma care nurse to give the green light before you start exercising.