I have just started running and am getting stitches in my right side. Although I am determined to keep at it, the stitches get so bad I have to stop. How can I get rid of them?
Side stitches occur as a result of a spasm of the diaphragm and are most common on the right side of the body just below the ribcage. One method to prevent or relieve side stitches is to breathe deeply while running.
When you breathe shallowly, the diaphragm is not allowed to lower correctly thus causing a strain on the ligaments connecting the liver to the diaphragm. Breathing deeply and exhaling fully reduces stress on the diaphragm allowing it to relax, thus preventing side stitches.
Also, try exhaling when your left foot strikes the ground. There is a complex explanation for this, but it works! Don’t eat within 1 hour of running and drink plenty of fluids while running. If all else fails, stop running and walk while concentrating on deep breathing. You can continue running once the stitch is relieved.
