Why Do We Get a Side Stitch When Running? | RapidSmartFacts

That sharp pain in your side mid-run can feel like your body hit

a sudden stop sign. It’s common and usually not dangerous. The scientific name

is exercise-related transient abdominal pain, or ETAP. It often happens during running because

of repeated bouncing and twisting. One leading idea is that movement irritates the lining

of the abdominal cavity. Another idea is that the ligaments supporting organs get

tugged during impact. Big meals or sugary drinks before exercise can make stitches more likely.

Shallow breathing can also add to the discomfort. The pain is usually on the

right side, but it can happen on either side. To ease it,