Question about left side cramp when running

[Eden]

Side cramps, or side "stiches" during exercise are pretty common - probably not worth a trip to the doctor, as even as much as they hurt, they aren't dangerous, nor does medical science really know what causes them.... of course if you have abdominal pain that does not resolve go see your doc.

Side cramps are probably most related to what you've eaten or how you've warmed up (or more likely *not* warmed up) before vigorous exercise. They can be intensely painful. I get side cramps if I eat bananas right before exercise or if I launch right into something very hard (like a big hill climb) without warming up first. They are way worse than the worst menstrual cramps I've ever had. Stopping massaging the area a bit, bending over usually relieves the acute cramp, but it will be sore for a while - makes me feel queasy even.

[Biciclista]

I have been able to nearly eliminate side stitches by deep rhythmic breathing. WHen I get tense and forget, bam, they're back..