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Exercise in hospital after stoma surgery
You will usually be seen by a physiotherapist who will give you breathing exercises and tell you how to cough in a way that supports your stoma and wound.
The best exercise immediately following surgery is to get up and walk. You may need the help of a nurse or physiotherapist at first but this should become easier. Sitting out of bed is also advised to reduce the chance of a chest infection.
You may be taken for a stair assessment prior to discharge.
Getting moving in the early days at home
It is important to keep mobile when you return home, and walking is ideal, but remember however far you walk you will need to get back again.
You may find it helpful to set yourself realistic goals that gradually increase over time. Listen to your body and if it feels too much, don’t do it!
When can I start exercising after stoma surgery?
There is no single answer - your timeline will depend on your age, the type and complexity of your surgery, your fitness levels before the operation, and how long you spent in hospital. Your surgical team and Stoma Care Nurse are your best guides here.
As a general guide:
- Light walking can usually begin within days of surgery, as soon as you feel comfortable.
- Most people can return to gentle, low-impact activity such as swimming or yoga within 6–8 weeks, subject to medical sign-off.
- More strenuous activities - including heavy lifting, contact sports or intense gym work - typically require a longer recovery period of three months or more.
Always speak to your Stoma Care Nurse or surgeon before returning to exercise, especially anything that places strain on your abdominal muscles.
Returning to ongoing exercise and sport with a stoma
After stoma surgery it is important that you get back to a healthy lifestyle as soon as you feel able.
Your recovery period may vary and will depend on your age, type of surgery, level of fitness before surgery and time spent in hospital.
Strengthening your abdominal muscles is beneficial for your general recovery. Swimming, walking, yoga and pilates will help to do this, but stop if it hurts. Continue with the abdominal exercises you were shown in hospital.
Confidence BE® go has been designed to allow you to feel confidence in getting back to doing what you love, including exercise. It has been designed to address your concerns on filters, leakage, pancaking, ballooning and the lack of personal choice.
Whatever activities you enjoyed before your surgery, you should be able to get back to when you have recovered.
Before returning to exercise or any strenuous activities, consult your stoma care nurse or surgeon to ensure it is safe to do so. Your stoma nurse may also advise you on whether a support belt is right for you. These garments are designed to help brace your abdominal wall, secure your appliance, and make you feel much more physically comfortable while staying active.
Can I go to the gym with a stoma?
Returning to the gym is absolutely possible after stoma surgery, though it is important to take a gradual, informed approach. High-impact activities and heavy weightlifting put significant strain on the abdominal wall, which can increase the risk of developing a parastomal hernia - one of the more common complications for people with a stoma.
- Start with low-impact cardio such as cycling, the cross-trainer or light treadmill walking.
- Avoid heavy compound lifts such as deadlifts or squats with heavy load until you have been given medical clearance.
- Wear a stoma support belt during all gym sessions to protect the abdominal wall.
- Stay well hydrated throughout, as ileostomy patients in particular are at higher risk of dehydration during exercise.
If you go to a gym it is advisable to see a personal trainer before commencing activities as they should be able to offer a tailored exercise programme. Activities such as gardening and golf can be commenced again but it is advisable to wear a support belt when doing these.
Ensure that you drink plenty of fluids when exercising to avoid dehydration.