Hi peeps,
Another Reader to Reader question by email, this time from Little T:
"I've just returned to running after four months off with an injury. Unfortunately, I'm getting really bad stitch each time I run - always in the same place, just under my ribcage on the right. I've tried everything to stop it - not eating for 2-3 hours before a run, eating a banana half an hour before, breathing out when my left foot strikes the floor, ditto with my right, relaxing my breathing, slowing down... nothing seems to help. I'm getting to the end of my tether!" (Little T)
Sounds pretty horrible. Any suggestions, other than "stop running and go and lie down instead"?
cheers!
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Comments
If you have no gut, pretend that you do have a gut, and suck it in tightly while continuing to run with a smug expression on your face.
Cloudburst - I'm like a big old beanpole I'm afraid - not a sniff of a gut...interested to hear more about your theory though. Surely the worst thing you can do if you have a stitch is tense your abs?
When i used to and still do get a stitch its usually down to lack of salt so it may be worth trying to put a little salt into a drink to mix it up!
Hope this helps!
I think prevention is the key, here. I have only ever had a stitch when running too soon after a substantial quantity of food or drink.
I have read that the weight of the food / drink pulls down your stomach, causing strains internally, further emphasised by the pounding associated with running.
Sal - i have a good Sportjock bra already - no point in me wearing anything underwired because i have grapes rather than melons ;o) - but thanks ever so much anyhow!
Phillip - i'd never considered that before. i don't actually eat salt on anything (though if i'm going on a long run, i do take isotonic drinks with me), so i shall try your suggestion today.
and if all else fails, i'll be the one running round Hyde Pk this lunchtime belching for Britain
Hope it works out for you!;)
when it did happen, i tried to jab my hand into the painful area like Little Lizard suggested, and my GOD - not only did it hurt, but this huge scary belch erupted and disturbed a flock of pigeons (this can ONLY be a good thing)!!! it's still recurring, but it wasn't as bad today as it has been over the past few weeks.
i've certainly got a lot of different methods to try - thank you all so much.
No-one seems to know the answer. Does anyone know what it is in the first place?
Holding my stomach muscles taut definitely helps to control the pain but doesn't remove it. Can Mike Gratton help?
Enjoy that meal!
superb.