Should I stop exercising when my side hurts?
Should I stop exercising when my side hurts?
The takeaway While many people will get through an episode with a few deep breaths or stretches, some will need to stop exercising to alleviate the pain. See your doctor if you’re experiencing side stitch pain at rest or you have other symptoms along with a side stitch.
How do you prevent side aches when exercising?
How to prevent a side stitch or cramp while running
- Avoid eating one to two hours before running.
- Consider leg therapy.
- Avoid sugary beverages before a run.
- Increase your water intake throughout the day.
- Warm up and stretch well before running.
How do I stop my side from hurting when I run?
5 tips for an acute side stitch
- Focus on your breathing. Proper breathing can contribute to relaxation of the diaphragm and respiratory muscles.
- Apply pressure where you feel the side stitch.
- Shift down a gear.
- Stop running for a moment and stretch.
- Stop running for a moment and bend your upper body forward.
Why does my side hurt when I run for a while?
When running, there is increased abdominal pressure pushing up on the diaphragm. At the same time, rapid breathing can cause the lungs to press down on the diaphragm, a muscle that if “pinched” from above and below, gets less blood flow and spasms, resulting in painful side stitches.
What does side pain mean?
Side pain (also called flank pain) is discomfort that occurs on the left or right side of the torso between the armpits (axilla) and the hips. These general areas contain bones, muscles, nerves, blood vessels, organs, and other structures that can become infected, inflamed or damaged.
Why does my right side hurt?
Pain on the right side of the abdomen can be caused by conditions such as appendicitis, hernia, kidney issues, reproductive system issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, or even gas. There are many possible reasons for discomfort in your right abdominal region.
What is a stitch when exercising?
A stitch in medical terms is known as “exercise-related transient abdominal pain”. People often describe it as a sharp or stabbing pain, or sometimes cramping, aching or pulling in the side, just below the ribs.
Why is my left side hurting?
Some common causes of pain on the left side of the body include infection and injury to internal organs, muscles, or nerves. In some cases, this pain resolves on its own. However, other cases may require immediate medical intervention.
When should I be concerned about my side pain?
Seek immediate medical care (call 911) for side pain accompanied by any of the following symptoms: Bloody or black stools. Chest pain or pressure which may or may not radiate to your shoulder blades, jaw, or left arm. Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
