Post-surgery (sigmoid removed) - what is progress?

[SnapJudgment]

I had a sigmoid volvulus (twisted sigmoid colon) and it was surgically removed in June 2012.  I'm currently six weeks post-surgery.

My surgeon and GI have been very responsive, but I wanted input from this community, as well -- there's only so much you can learn from your doctors.

I understand I shouldn't be feeling "normal" yet, but what *should* I be feeling?  I've been discouraged the last few days by mild bloating and a decrease in the frequency and volume of my farts.  Bowel movements have been fairly regular since the surgery -- once or twice a day -- though the last few days have shown a slight decrease in their productivity.  The last few days, I've also experienced mild lower back pain.

Internally, my abdomen still feels "light," as though there's something missing and it feels as though I can sense my organs moving around when I move my body.  Sleeping on my sides, turning rapidly, or sitting up can cause a sort of weightless, jarring sensation inside my abdomen.

Should I feel these things?  Will I always feel these things?  Are there behaviors or exercises I should do to strengthen my abdomen or otherwise improve my recovery?

[patient915]

Good, let us know if you have any more questions.

[SnapJudgment]

Thanks for the link. It looks like some of those people had a similar experience to mine, which is encouraging -- especially when reading follow-up posts from people who said they eventually returned to normal.  It's clear from that thread that everyone's experience is slightly different.  I'll try to be patient for a full recovery.

[patient915]

Welcome to the gastroenterology community!  This post (especially the part by morecambe) is about a colectomy not a sigmoidectomy but I think you still might find it helpful: http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Gastroenterology/colectomy/show/523166