You may not put exercise and Stoma Patients together. However, exercise is good for everyone and this includes people with a colostomy. Once a patient’s strength has returned, a physiotherapist can recommend that a patient recommences exercise. It is advised that patients check with their surgeon too.

Prevalence.

There are approximately 102 000 people have a stoma in the UK either temporarily or permanent. 13 500 patients undergo surgery each year. The most common reason is for colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Benefits of Exercise.

Exercise has a number of benefits which include:

• Improved circulation.
• Stronger heart.
• Better balance and flexibility.
• Better concentration.
• Improved skin tone.
• Weight loss and more self confidence.
• Increased  stamina and energy.

Exercise is as important to a stoma patient as it is to anyone else young or old!

Risk Factors of Lack of Exercise.

Gaining weight or excessive weight post operative can interfere with the punch adherence. This causes leakage, peristomal skin problems and repeated changes in ostomy management systems. This results in frequent clinic visits. In turn increasing the cost of care.

If you have had a stoma due to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) you can present with other complications of the disease such as arthritis. Spondylitis may result in fusion of the vertebrae leading to decreased range of movement especially in the sacroiliac joints. Physiotherapy would aim to keep movement in the spine by teaching postural and stretching exercises.

Constipation is common in the older person. If an elderly person has a descending colostomy there is an increased risk of constipation. A lot of colostomy patients fall into the over 65 years age bracket. Cycling can be a good form of aerobic exercise because it doesn’t load the joints.

Recommendations.

Preparation for exercise is important. The pouch system should be emptied before exercise. ‘Picture framing’ with waterproof tape for extra security can be done. There are many suitable pouches that are light weight and flexible allowing you to exercise.

Patients should begin with walking every day. Walking stimulates the return of normal bowel function. No heavy lifting should occur during the first few weeks after your surgery as the abdominal muscles have been weakened. They need time to repair. If you had laparoscopic surgery, this is not the case.

Stoma patients can regain their previous fitness levels and return to a huge variety of sports and exercise: swimming, running, yoga, team sports, cycling, gym work. Swimming is still an option with a stoma. It is a matter of finding the right swimwear.

Our physiotherapists can guide you into your return to your chosen exercise. Most exercise such as running, gym work should not be attempted for at least three months post operatively. When commenced, it should be a slow, graded return. This can be discussed on your assessment. To book an appointment please call 01245 377118.