A question about returning to work

[happypanda]

I'm planning on going back to work after a two and a half year break. I had my surgery in January and now have and ileostomy.
I work in the service industry. I feel that I am fit to return to work, but I don't want to push myself so I'm starting at the student level for hours.
My Doctor is hesitant to let me lift anything for fear of the stoma herniating.
I was wondering what is the rule of thumb for limits of lifting things?

 

[Hobbes650]

Hi HP!

Rule number 1- lift with your legs.

Seriously, I wouldn't worry too much but definitely do whatever your doctor says. You have probably healed well by now. I have had an ileostomy for over 20 years and I have never been advised about possible herniation from lifting too much. I have loved the quality of my life with this, especially compared too before. As I grew older (44 now), I certainly put on my pounds, but down dropped almost 20 pounds this year by hitting the gym hard doing circuit training. I don't think there are special rules for people with our surgery, but certainly age and present physical condition would be the main concerns. My only issue is trying to get rid of my belly fat. I think with my scar it collects down there more easily and harder to burn off, but I'm trying hard. Always the hardest part to lose for any male though. Abdominal exercises are no problem for me.

Best of luck, and hope all works out for you.

Hobbes650

 

[shamrock15]

I guess under the worst of circumstances it is still a "defect" in your abdominal muscles, so some weight bearing could possibly be an issue - how much is it you are planning on lifting? Hobbes is right though, I was able to do some pretty vigorous exercise when I had my bag - serious skating, strength training, cycling, canoeing - and never had an issue with it. I did have some very minor complications when I had the reversal. I had a couple occasions when I got a really uncomfortable bubble in my belly (looked like I was about to give birth to the alien), but I pushed the thing right back! I would talk to your doctor and outline your proposed exercise regime and see what you can do.

 

[Samboi]

Great news that you're allowed to go back to work Happy Panda.
Exciting!!
I'm a total sook and won't lift anything over 5 kilos (I make an exception for my 6 kilo cats!!) ... but I know I'm being a total sooky la la.

 

[Terriernut]

As the parastomal olympic champion my advice is, dont lift over 5kg either! And wear a belt if you are going to lift more!

Mine isnt from lifting. Mine is from a cock up in surgery and getting a chest infection shortly after surgery.

 

[happypanda]

I talked to my favorite doc today. He told me to limit to about 10 pounds. gives me an excuse not to deal with the raw chickens (i work in a deli). Always hated dealing with the chickens

 

[Squadinho]

Don't do what I did and jump back into work full time.

Take it easy, take it slow.

There are some great packs and info sheets on this website. The NACC is a British organisation so some of it may not apply to you but certainly worth a look anyway and they even have a handy pack for employers.

http://www.nacc.org.uk/content/services/infoSheets.asp