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What is it?

A stitch is a sharp pain felt in your side just under your ribs. It is commonly felt while running. It can be painful and cause you to stop exercising. Although it is not clear what is the cause of a stitch, it is thought that these pains in the side are a result of inadequate oxygen delivery to the muscles that are involved in breathing - the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles (between the ribs).

Running with a stitch

Treatment

Some people try and 'run trough' the pain, hoping it will go away after a time which it sometimes does. Breathing through pursed lips is recommended to ease the pain, but stopping your exercise activity is sometimes the only solution. The pain usually recedes after a time, and there should be no permanent damage done.

Related Pages

• See treatment for other sporting injuries
• About Cramps
• Muscles of the human body

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Disclaimer

The above information is presented as a general guide. The author and publisher take no responsibility for any possible consequences of any treatment, procedure, exercise, action or application of medication based on this information. See more: Disclaimer.