Walking | Jogging | Yoga | Gymming
Exercise is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid weight gain. But for someone with an ostomy, it also helps to prevent developing parastomal hernias. One of the greatest benefits of exercise is the ‘feel good’ factor. It will not only boost your confidence but also the ability to cope with your stoma and quality of life. If you’re new to exercise, talk with your doctor before starting any fitness program and build up slowly. Your healthcare professional will initially refer you certain kinds of exercises that he wants his patients to engage in.
For endurance, walking is an excellent exercise. It is an ideal choice and can be as gentle or brisk as you want. After your surgery, along with getting your bodily systems moving, it will help in recovery as well. Begin slowly and work up to a longer distance and at a brisker pace. Empty your ostomy pouch before you begin. Walking also help reduce the possibility of constipation and is a great stress reducer. Before you begin, give some support to the pouch with support garments. Get recommendations from your healthcare provider for better details to accomplish this.
Jogging is a great exercise and for this, you do not have to change your current ostomy system. Your current ostomy pouch will work. If comfort and security is your major concern, you could try mini-pouch. Prefer wearing an ostomy belt to keep the appliance in place. It will also drastically reduce the bouncing. Drink water before, during and after the session.
Before starting yoga (after surgery), consult your physician. It is a great way to relax the mind as well as a gentle way to strengthen the body. Pranayama or any other breath yoga is helpful for complete body and spirit. This can be very helpful in recovering the body after treatment and gaining the strength back. Yoga heals on the cellular level, and deep breathing assists in rejuvenating cells. It will also improve your posture, strength, and flexibility which might have been affected by surgery and bed rest. Gentle stretches and movements likewise get the blood moving in the body, which can help in recovering from surgical treatment.
Avoid any lifting for at least 12 weeks after surgery. Following your doctor's advice is crucial, but it does not lead to the conclusion that you cannot exercise ever again. You can begin the strength training with extra caution. Start the session targeting large muscles group like legs and upper torso. Go easy on yourself and do just a few repetitions. Take plenty of rest between sets. Keep yourself hydrated during the workout and eat well afterwards. Benefits will be visible if you are consistent. Lifting creates considerable abdominal pressure. An Ostomy belt is a must in this situation to diminish risks of injuries and parastomal hernias.
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
