- According to Dr. Mona Shangold, this painful "stitch" often results from a spasm of the diaphragm when the lungs inflate rapidly at the same time the legs are pumping and putting pressure on the abdominal muscles. Blood flow to the diaphragm, and thus oxygen, is reduced. Jostling of major organs and stretching of ligaments can also contribute.
- To alleviate runner's cramp, stop running, squeeze the cramped area and exhale forcefully through pursed lips, or reach above your head and stretch for a few minutes. Try to breathe by inflating your abdomen instead of your chest.
- To prevent runner's cramps, strengthen your core muscles and practice belly breathing; don't eat a heavy meal within 1 or 2 hours before your run; remain hydrated; warm up properly; pace yourself; and coordinate inhaling and exhaling with your left foot striking the pavement.
- Other fairly serious causes of stomach pain after running are abdominal cramps due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, as well as runner's diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration.
- Consult your doctor immediately if you experience stomach pain that does not go away or worsens, pain that radiates up to your neck and does not subside after a few minutes or nausea and vomiting associated with abdominal cramping.
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