Running Can be a Pain in the Side

Photo: Ed Yourdon, Flickr

Ever get a "stitch" in your side while running? Happens to the best of us -- but why, and how can you prevent it?

Stitches are a literal pain in the side, says fitness instructor and registered holistic nutritionist Sarah Brown of That's Fit.ca. And the stitch -- usually a sharp twinge just below the rib cage on the right side of the body -- is pretty common for those just starting to run. Stitches can be caused by a full stomach, weak abdominal muscles, dehydration or stretched ligaments that extend from the diaphragm to the internal organs (like the liver, which is on the right side).

To prevent stitches, Brown says to control your breathing and take up some abdominal and lower-back exercises. And to stop a stitch in its tracks, she says you should stop running and "place your hand into the right side of your belly and push up, lifting the liver slightly while you count to 10. Inhale and exhale evenly as you push up." You could also try stretching, slowing your pace, and of course, if you experience pain that doesn't go away, see your doctor.

To become the best runner you can be, you might want to reverse some of your bad running habits.