Kidney stones, also known as nephrolithiasis, are small, hard pebbles that form inside kidneys, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Those with kidney stones may experience moderate to severe pain in the back or side that can limit physical activities. Physical exercise can aggravate kidney stone pain. Your doctor most likely will advise against exercising until the kidney stone is expelled.
Pain
Passing a kidney stone can be very painful, according to PubMedHealth. As the kidney stone moves through the urinary system to be expelled, severe lower abdominal and groin pain may be experienced, pain so intense that it can prohibit engaging in physical exercise. After a kidney stone is passed, consult a doctor to rule out complications that may limit the type of exercises that can be performed in the future.
Exercise and Dehydration
If the doctor clears you for exercise, avoid engaging in strenuous or vigorous activities that don't provide adequate fluid intake. Dehydration is one of the common causes of kidney stones, according to PubMedHealth. Drink six to eight glasses of water every day to increase urine production and urination. Drink water before and after engaging in vigorous exercise. Urinating several times a day decreases the likelihood of developing kidney stones.
Uric Acid and Weight Loss
Avoid engaging in excessive exercise and rapid weight loss; they can increase the risk for kidney stones. Both practices can raise the levels of uric acid in the blood, according to PubMedHealth. Uric acid is created from the break down of natural substances called purines. Uric acid kidney stones can be the result of higher than normal levels of the acid.
Symptoms
Small kidney stones do not usually cause symptoms. Kidneys are capable of passing small stones without causing discomfort. However, passing large kidney stones typically brings back or side pain, groin pain, fever, chills, bloody urine, nausea, vomiting and painful urination, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Make an appointment with a health-care provider if any of these symptoms develop.
