If you have a cramping pain that occurs during your workouts, you are likely suffering from exercise-related transient abdominal pain, more commonly referred to as side stitches. The pain is likely to occur during aerobic activity and relief can be typically found by discontinuing exercise. You can also take preventative measures to stop cramps during workout sessions.
Causes
The cramping from exercise can occur from several reasons. For instance, if you are not breathing properly while working out, you are depriving your muscles of oxygen. The lack of oxygen causes the muscle to cramp up and pain to occur. Bouncing during aerobic activity, like running, can cause the connective tissue between your organs to stretch and a cramping sensation to occur. Gastrointestinal distress like gas pain can also cause abdominal cramping during exercise.
Treatment
Changing your diet can help you avoid cramping related to gastrointestinal distress. Avoid heavy meals two to four hours before intense forms of exercise like running. Instead, eat a light snack such as a piece of fruit, protein bar or handful of nuts. You should sip water continuously before, during and after exercise sessions. This helps you avoid cramping because of dehydration. Breathe in and out at an even pace while working out and slow down your pace if you start taking shallow breaths. If the pain becomes intense, stop exercising and lie flat on your back. Lift your legs into the air and you should experience quick relief.
Prevention
To prevent side stitches, the Sports Injury Bulletin recommends you take steps to strengthen your abdominal muscles. Participate in exercises at least three days a week that work the core muscles, such as yoga and Pilates. Stretching before exercise may also be helpful to avoid muscle cramping.
Warning
Speak to your doctor if the cramping continues after exercise or you experience abdominal pain on a chronic basis. He may wish to run some tests to rule out any other possible causes of the pain. According to the Sports Injury Bulletin, exercise-related transient pain most often occurs on the right side of the abdomen. If you feel pain on the left side that does not stop once you lie on the ground with your legs elevated, seek medical attention right away in case you are having a heart issue.
Member Comments