Stomach cramps that go away after stretching your abdominal muscles are quite common. They often follow exercise or overuse of area muscles and can occur anywhere on the abdomen. Stomach cramps are also associated with an upset digestive system, as well as a variety of medical conditions. Stretching may provide some temporary relief in such instances, though these are less likely scenarios in your case.
Symptoms
Cramps that feel better after you stretch generally appear suddenly and are sharp and significantly painful. Muscle spasms may be noted, as may muscle rigidity in the affected area. Without stretching, your stomach cramps can be expected to last around 15 minutes or longer, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Accompanying symptoms pointing to gastrointestinal upset include generalized stomach pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
Causes
If your stomach cramps go away with stretching, you most likely strained certain abdominal muscles. In reaction to being strained, muscles in the area contract and remain tightened. An exercise regimen or more physical activity than you are accustomed to are probable causes. Labored breathing during physical exertion can also limit oxygen flow to muscles, worsening cramps. If your cramps are related to digestive problems, dehydration is often to blame. Overheating and sweating profusely sap the body of fluids, sodium and electrolytes, sometimes resulting in stomach cramps.
Prevention/Treatment
As you've already discovered, stretching is an effective remedy for stomach cramps caused by overused abdominal muscles. It is also an effective preventative measure. Stretch all your abdominal muscles slowly before exercise, long periods of standing or physically demanding activities. Warm up your body before exertion with some light aerobic exercise, and do the same in reverse to cool down afterward. If cramps are a common problem, stretch in the morning and periodically throughout the day as well. To avoid dehydration, simply drink water or natural fruit juice to replenish lost fluids.
Warnings
Abdominal pain is a symptom of certain medical problems and even emergencies. Though it is unlikely in your case, where stretching remedies the pain, the presence of other serious symptoms or recurring problems should prompt an examination by a doctor. According to MayoClinic.com, abdominal pain can point to problems with the appendix, liver, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, ovaries and other reproductive organs, intestines or nerves in the area. In addition, it can be a sign of ulcers, urinary tract infections, digestive disorders, hernia, pregnancy complications, atherosclerosis, heart attack, pneumonia, nutritional deficiencies and other health concerns.
If dehydration presents symptoms such as dizziness, disorientation, excessive thirst, constipation, lethargy or inelastic skin, it is severe. Seek medical treatment.
References
- Rice University; Abdominal Pain in Runners; Dec. 1997
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; Muscle Cramp; May 2010
- MedlinePlus; Muscle Cramps; April 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Muscle Cramps; July 2008
- MayoClinic.com; Muscle Cramp; Mayo Clinic staff; July 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Abdominal Pain - Causes; Mayo Clinic staff; Dec. 2010
