Physical exertion with Severe Sigmoid Diverticulitis

I found that after flareups I got a sharp stabbing, burning or stinging sensation with certain movements.  These included bending, sitting, squatting.  I was never told the exact reason but I suspect the pain was caused by squashing a part of the colon that was inflamed.  I stopped doing the movements that were causing the pain immediately, and tried to amend my movements as far as possible.  For example, to pick something up, I would keep my left leg straight and stretched out behind me, whilst bending my right knee, and using my right hand on something low like a step stool to support myself.  In the evening I don't sit in a chair with knees bent, but recline with legs straight on a pouffee, or lay out of a settee.  I found as the attack subsided so did the pain, but being careful how I move has become 2nd nature.  I was always active throughout, playing competitive table tennis and walking about 25 miles a week, but these are upright exercises.  I found my ability to garden was compromised though.  I could kneel but getting up got tricky.  I would lean forward and push myself up with my hands on something elevated off the ground, like a large pot or raised bed, keeping my legs and trunk as straight as possible.  Similarly cleaning the floor became tricky, and my step stool has become my best friend.  Its just trial and error to find different ways of moving that work for you.

Dixie, here's my experience with pain from DD: when I awaken in the a.m., I feel like a bundle of energy, but by late afternoon, my body reminds me that I have this condition, and I usually take an extra strength Tylenol to mitigate the pain that's starting. All of this tells me that I need to not push it, at least for the time being. I limit my activities and lay down for a rest every few hours. Absolutely no heavy lifting or prolonged strenuous activity. My daughter is an RN, and advised that I not try to gut through the pain without taking something for it (Tylenol) because prolonged pain causes a spike in blood pressure.  Hope this info helps you in planning your activities while you have this condition.

I read the post for Felinia, and it is spot on. When I sit for prolonged periods, the discomfort returns. I'm sure it has to do with squishing the part of the colon/abdomen that is inflamed. Walking, however, is an absolute must. It helps to get everything moving without causing discomfort. Today is another good day, I'm sure as a result of my soft diet. I'm motivated to keep on with the same eating lifestyle, but I sorely miss my "real" food.