Side aches from running
So, I have a client who has just started running. She’s having troubles with side aches. I’ve recommended not eating within an hour of starting her run, making sure she’s properly hydrating, paying attention to her breathing (try to inhale through nose and exhale through mouth) and take deep breaths rather than short ones. I can’t think of anything else and they happen like 3 minutes in. I’ve been running since high school so I can’t remember what it’s like to be a beginning runner and having these problems, anyone have any other tips?
This is far from scholarly, however, I hope it gives you some direction,.
Hello Kim,
You may find this article interesting:
http://www.fictionweek.com/trailrunningusa/sideache.html
I Hope This Helps!
Michael
I agree with the above suggestions, to watch his/her form, and perform a proper warm-up before running. I then wanted to add a couple of thoughts. The articles I’ve read repeatedly discuss the muscles involved. I would think that the abdominals, spine, and surrounding tissue would need to be warmed-up as much as the feet & legs. I would start with some self-massage of the tummy while lying supine and focus on deep, slow breathing, as a way to relax and uncoil any tight tissue here. Then, upon standing, perform some upper body stretches, particularly with one arm reaches in several directions, repeated by the other arm, also incorporating restorative breathing. Not sure this will solve everyone’s side stitches, but the lungs and spine will love you for it!