The 4 years I have had my ileostomy, I have been afraid to do crunches, or strenuous stomach workouts, worrying about a hernia, or a prolapse(Heaven forbid!!!) Well, it is taking it's toll. Starting to gain weight. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I know all situations are diffrent, but some basic stuff would be great. Thanks, Mike

Hi Mike,
My surgeon started me out with deep abdominal breathing exercises...laying flat on your back with knees slightly bent and then breath in full and deep and take it down as deeply as possible. Reaaly fill you abdomen with the air and hold for 5-10 secs. Then exhale slowly. repeat as many as you can. Try doing them at night in bed before you go to sleep and then in the morning before you get up...it helps in the begining to get tone back..Then you can work your way up to something crunchier after about a month. I do really baby crunches now..flat on the ground and lift my head/shoulders off the ground about 4-5 inches (whimpy, I know!)but it is all that I can do. I also do really modified leg lifts with bent knees. Whatever you do, go slow and wear a back belt while you are doing it!
(no deadlifting lawn mowers, please!)
Sharon

Thanks Sharon!! I have started the exercises , and will hope for the best. Have always had strong abdominal muscles, but now going flabby. Again, THANKS! Mike

Mike,
You may want to research if there are either exercise physiologists or physical therapists in your area familiar with ostomy patients and recommended exercises. You local support group may have a list.

Thanks Diane. I spoke with my Family Dr. , and he told me to avoid any exercises that you would "hold your breath, and push on the abdomen". Almost opposite what I used to do in a regular workout. Mostly Cardio workouts to stay in shape. Oh well.....