Kids, Sports & Ulcerative Colitis

Kids with ulcerative colitis often have trouble leading normal lives because their needs are far more serious than those of other children. They need constant access to a restroom, time to rest when pain flares up, and support from all of the adults in their lives. Sports present yet another problem, because even kids with ulcerative colitis enjoy leading active lives.

When I was younger and didn't know that my problems were related to ulcerative colitis, I played baseball and basketball, and I rode horses in the evenings. I think you can probably figure out which sport made me the most uncomfortable, but sports are always difficult for kids with ulcerative colitis. As a parent, you can help your child cope with this disease and pursue the sports that interest them most.

Types of Sports

Generally speaking, sports which involve as little constant motion as possible are the best for kids with ulcerative colitis. For example, golf would probably be a better choice than football. Of course, kids can play whatever sports they feel comfortable playing as long as they realize the inherent risks. The most important thing is choosing an activity that gives the child frequent access to public restrooms.

Basketball was usually better than baseball because it was played indoors. Whenever I felt the urge to go to the bathroom, I could leave the gym and find the school facilities rather than having to walk across a field to a Port-A-Potty. If you have a child with ulcerative colitis, you can assist by helping him or her locate restrooms in advance - for example, if you're traveling to an 'away' game.

For some people I've talked to, constant movement increases the frequency of ulcerative colitis flare-ups. I'm the opposite, and periods of inactivity are the most detrimental. Horseback riding was uncomfortable not because I had to use the restroom, but because kids with ulcerative colitis frequently suffer from sore backsides. Talk to your kid and find out when he or she is the most uncomfortable, then find a sport that doesn't cause such discomfort.

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