<prompt> If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patients description.My abdomen hardens after walking andor going up stepshills, I can feel it tightening up and this isnot comfortable. It also feels heavy sometimes and becomes uncomfortable to walk to where i hold onto buggy in the store to shop. Lower back pain has started this week just like i used to have with my periods. I am 65 and 16 months post radical tahbso  <response>: Hi, The backache The abdominal stretch can be after effect of the operation ? Total abdominal hysterectomy With both sides ovaries. The backache can be due to osteoporosis following the ovarian removal. It can be managed by calcium, vitamin D replacement along with hormonal replacement if recommended by your doctor. - considering your age, X-Ray spine will help to assess diagnose possibility of lumber spondylitis. Depending on the indication for your operation, your doctor may suggest MRI to exclude certain other possibilities When you climb the stairs, or lift push a buggy, the abdominal muscles naturally get tight. The pain you feel is due to weakness of abdominal muscles stretching of the scar. This will reduce over few more months. You can start light abdominal exercises to strengthen your abdominal muscles. Painkillers will give you temporary relief. Thank you. 