Watch our Ostomy Lifestyle Specialist, Laura Cox, in her video on how to exercise with an ostomy. In this video, Laura discusses how to get started exercising after surgery, the importance of staying hydrated and suggests which exercises are best. Please note that Laura has an ileostomy, so her tips may be geared towards her fellow ileostomates, although those with urostomies or colostomies may also find the tips helpful.
Why Exercise?
Exercising increases the release of endorphins in the body. Endorphins are responsible for boosting your mood and decreasing pain perception. Additionally, exercising is good for bone strength and cardiovascular health.
Exercise can be especially helpful during ostomy surgery recovery. The body movement helps to wake up your intestines and can shorten recovery time, assuming you take it slowly and follow your doctor’s directions.
Be sure that you speak with your doctor before starting any exercise routine — especially when you would like to begin exercising after surgery.
The best way to start – once you have your doctor’s approval – is to begin walking. This will help to build your endurance back up to where it was before surgery.
You can find more about exercising with an ostomy here.
If you are looking for specific simple exercise instructions for people who have had abdominal surgery, please check out this article on the Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Association page.
More articles you may be interested in:
- Exercising with an Ostomy | Products that can Help
- Skin Care for New Ostomates Video
- High Elevation and Ostomies | Ask Laura
- Helpful Tips For Everyday Stoma Care
- Famous People with Ostomies
- Tips and Tricks to Stay Hydrated
Shield HealthCare | Stronger with Shield