Lead Researcher

Gill Hubbard

HALT is a patient feasibility study looking at physical activity as a means of improving the quality of life in people living with a bowel stoma who have a bulge or parastomal hernia. People with a stoma have identified parastomal hernia and physical activity as top research priorities in relation to their quality of life. Studies indicate that due to patient concern of developing a parastomal hernia post-surgery, this can lead to reduced or no physical activity. A parastomal hernia can affect a person’s view of themselves leading to concerns over body image. The application of a stoma appliance can be more difficult due to shape or size of the bulge or parastomal hernia and together these can contribute to a poor general quality of life.

Participants and Study Size

We aim to recruit approximately 20 adults with a bowel stoma and evidence of a bulge or parastomal hernia. People with previous parastomal hernia repair will be excluded as well as people who are already doing core training on a regular basis. Participants will follow a series of exercises over a 12 week period, guided by a clinical exercise specialist via online exercise sessions and an exercise booklet with links to exercise videos recorded by the research team.

Aims

The study aims to increase participant’s core strength and control across the abdomen (usually seen as an area of weakness following surgery) thus potentially reducing the risk of parastomal hernia or bulge progression. Participants may gain confidence to engage in other forms of physical activity which will lead to an improvement in body image and quality of life.

Cost

£71,333 funded by IA and The Kingston Trust