Tip of the Week

Stitch Stopper

Sidelined by side stitches during exercise?   Here's a simple solution.

New Zealand researchers found that stopping in your tracks can stop a side stitch in its tracks.  Simply stop your exercise for a minute or two and bend forward at your waist.  This technique apparently relieves pain better than stretching your midsection or massaging the cramp.  You also can try tightening your abdominal muscles while exhaling through pursed lips to relieve the cramp.

A side stitch is a sharp pain usually felt just below the ribs and sometimes further up the torso.  Though not a lot is known about what causes side stitches, many believe they are brought on by tension on the ligaments, a spasm in the diaphragm, food in the stomach, or gas.  Drinking or eating too much immediately before you exercise also can induce side stitches.

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