Side aches, medically known as exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP), are a common complaint among runners. They are characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain in the side that can range from mild to severe. While the exact cause of side aches is unknown, there are a number of factors that are thought to contribute, including:
- Improper breathing
- Dehydration
- Inadequate warm-up
- Eating too close to running
- Certain medical conditions
Side aches can be a nuisance, but they are also a sign that your body is working hard. If you experience side aches while running, there are a few things you can do to relieve the pain:
