According to the University of Michigan Health System, kidney stones are formed in the kidneys and may travel down the urinary tract, often causing pain. As such, you may be unable to exercise due to increased pain and discomfort in your abdomen, back or groin. Returning to exercise after successfully passing or removing kidney stones is possible with recommendations by your doctor.
Causes
Kidney stones are made of salts and minerals in the urine that can form into a ball, or stone, and travel throughout the urinary track. The University of Michigan Health System says most kidney stones are passed through urine without causing any issues to the patient. But particularly large stones may become lodged in the ureters or urethra and cause high levels of pain or discomfort. The university website also suggests that improper hydration may increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
Symptoms
Kidney stones that are small enough to be passed via urine often cause no pain at all, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Larger stones that have become lodged in the urinary tract can cause pain in the abdomen, back or lower torso. When left untreated, you may notice redness or a pink color to your urine as a result of minor bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms associated with kidney stones.
Exercise
Returning to exercise after passing or removing a kidney stone should be done only under the recommendation of a doctor. Abdominal tenderness may be present even after passing a kidney stone, so adjust your exercise program to a lower intensity to limit irritation. According to MayoClinic.com, kidney stones rarely cause any permanent damage in the patient, so speak to your doctor about additional information regarding your return to a full exercise program.
Tests
Your doctor may ask you to urinate through a strainer designed to catch smaller kidney stones, MayoClinic.com says. These stones are collected and tested to determine the reason you are forming stones. After diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe medication or a home nutrition plan to help you prevent the recurrence of stone formation.
Risks
The development of kidney stones can also be caused by additional sources, according to MayoClinic.com. For example, you may be at a higher risk to develop kidney stones if you're an adult, if you are male, or if members of your family have a history of this condition. Dehydration is also a contributing factor to kidney stone development, so drink plenty of water throughout the day and while you exercise. Speak to your doctor for more information on your risk of kidney stone development.
