Ask the Ostomy Nurse
Linda Coulter has been a Certified Wound Ostomy & Continence Nurse for 10 years. In addition to working with hundreds of people with stomas, she has trained several WOC nursing students at the R.B. Turnbull Jr. School of WOC Nursing. Linda has presented nationally and internationally on ostomy related topics. From her home base at University Hospitals’ Ahuja Medical Center, Linda is active in raising Ostomy Awareness, and works to distribute ostomy supplies to people in need throughout the world.
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Massage with an Ostomy
Can I get a massage with a colostomy? I enjoy going to the spa with friends and getting a massage. I haven’t gone since my surgery last month. I would normally be on my stomach for getting the back massage, but now I’m concerned I might hurt the ostomy.
J.M.
Dear J.M.,
As you likely know from experience, massages offer a number of benefits from stress relief to improved circulation and flexibility. They may also boost the immune system and positively affect our mood. All of this is good for a person, whether they’ve had surgery recently or not.
Generally laying on your stomach will not injure your stoma. The stoma and pouch will conform to the table surface. Many people with stomas sleep on their stomachs through the night. When first going back to the spa, bring a thin, but soft pillow to use in case you find lying on your stomach uncomfortable. Using the pillow may also bring you peace of mind when you’re getting your first massage. Also, let the masseuse know that you recently had abdominal surgery and have a stoma. They may offer suggestions or be able to modify their work to make you feel most comfortable.
Just one month after surgery, I would not recommend abdominal massage. Contact your surgeon’s office to find out how long you should wait before having a massage in that area.
Before I sign off, I will mention that wearing an ostomy pouch should not stop you from using the sauna and hot tub at the spa. Empty the pouch before you enter the hot tub. To feel extra secure consider adding wafer extenders to the edge of the baseplate. There are several brands available from your supplier. An ostomy wrap such as those from Ostomy Secrets, Awestomy Active, and Stealthbelt can add stylish security as well.
