Your sporting pleasure will soon be over if you get a stab in the side. What causes those painful stings?
Different explanations
Science isn't quite sure what causes stitches in your side. Chances are it has to do with several factors. Novice athletes, for example, suffer from it more often than experienced athletes and stings are more common in sports with jerky movements, such as running.
The influence of eating before exercise
It was long thought that you get stitches in your side if you eat and drink right before exercise. That can certainly play a part, but it doesn't seem to be the only reason. Cyclists eat and drink before and sometimes even while cycling, but on average they suffer from stabbing in their sides less often than runners.
Physical cause
Stitches in your side occur when your diaphragm muscle cramps. This contraction occurs because organs are attached to your diaphragm. With every step, your organs pull on your diaphragm and that can cause that painful spasm. In addition, the reduced blood supply could play a role.
What can you do about stitches in your side
All nice and nice, those possible causes, but preferably you just want to get rid of those stitches. Read our tips against stitches in your side.
