What causes a stitch when exercising?

Answer 1

Typically a stitch is caused by a muscle in the abdomanal area going into spasm causing a great amount of pain. A few stretches only make it worse, there are four easy solutions:

1) Take very deep breaths and continue running whilst doing this

2) Raise your hands above your head and breathe in, the as you drop your hands (slowly) exhale.

3) When you run, make sure you carry a bottle of water. It helps too.

4) If the pain gets too much, stop running altogether and keep pressure on the stitch

Answer 2

A piercing sensation just below the ribcage is called a side stitch. It is usually felt when running. Though there have been several theories of the cause in the past, a recent theory is that strain on the ligaments that connect the liver to the diaphragm is the cause. The ligaments can become stretched when running because running exerts a steady downward force on the liver. As you exhale while running, the diaphragm is pushed up, causing the liver to fall with gravity as the diaphragm is pushed up, putting a lot of strain on the ligaments that connect the two.

The resulting pain is called a side stitch and you need to stop running immediately. Pressing your hand below the pain should lift your liver. You should inhale and exhale evenly as you press down.

Taking full, deep breaths while running is a preventative measure.

Answer 3

My dad says 'If you have a stitch slow down'And it always works you just have to wait a couple minutes or 1

Answer 4

There are quite a few causes of side stitches such as lack of oxygen. Your body often gets side stitches during exercise.

Answer 5

I don't have stabbing pains in my side, and I don't know why you do either. Perhaps you should consider seeing a physician instead of getting answers from a bunch of yahoos on the internet.