I get an unbearable pain right under my ribcage after running for only 10-15 minutes.?

Question

It feels like a knife is stabbing me and when I dig my fingers into to get rid of the pain (my coach told me to do this) the pain severely increases. I can go through 90 minute soccer games without a hint of this pain, but when I run it is unbearable. I am also in very good shape, and am not tired, just in pain so I don't think it is that.

Answer 1

is it like a cramp? try taking deep breaths; also try running very even in pacing

good luck

check with your doctor just in case

Answer 2

If the pain is on the right side, it's probably a common side stitch.

Stitches are very common for new runners, but even experienced runners get them some times.  Stitches are probably spasms of the diaphragm muscle (a muscle below your lungs that controls your breathing).  They can be triggered by either running too fast or by eating a heavy meal prior to running.  You know it's a stitch if it goes away almost immediately after you stop running.

Slowing down or stopping can end the stitch.  When you stop, bend over and bring your knee up on the affected side while pressing your fingers into the painful spot.  If that's not an option, concentrate on breathing from your stomach.  Take a deep breath as you inhale, then blow the air out as though you were blowing out a birthday candle.  Another thing you can try is adjusting your breathing so that you inhale and exhale when you land on your LEFT foot.

I personally find simply changing position, moving from side to side a little bit while still running or even briefly bending forward while running often chase a stitch away.

Other causes of side stitch like pain could include dehydration (so make sure you're well hydrated) or running with food in your stomach as after a heavy meal.  Running also can cause stomach distress because it jostles your intestines a lot.

If the pain does not go away with rest, starts occurring randomly when you're at rest, or is more of a chest pain, then you should see a doc to make sure nothing serious is going on.

The good news about stitches is although experienced runners sometimes get them if they eat too much before running or if they run harder than usual, usually stitches become much less frequent as you get better conditioned to running.

Answer 3

2 things:

1)  Do not drink liquid for at least an hour before you run

2)  Stretch your stomach area before your run.  (keeping your legs spread out and firm, stretch your upper body to the right and left slowly taking deep breathes)

This should resolve this problem.