Lower Abdominal Pain During Walking and Running

Pain in the lower abdomen during walking or running?

I experience pain on both sides at the level of my navel (I recall the left side is more common) when walking or running.
The pain is intermittent and requires me to stop moving in order to alleviate it.
I'm unsure of the cause, but it tends to occur when I eat a large meal or drink a bit more water.
Typically, I can walk at a normal pace for about 2 to 10 minutes before experiencing abdominal pain.
When I exercise, if I want to run, I usually fast and avoid drinking water for over an hour, which can slightly alleviate the issue.
However, I generally cannot run more than 1 kilometer without experiencing abdominal pain, regardless of how long it has been since I last ate.
When I do experience abdominal pain while running, even if I rest until the pain subsides, I cannot continue running for a short period without it recurring, and it tends to happen more quickly.
This issue has persisted for several years, and I have found it difficult to maintain a slow jog or run for more than 20 minutes.
Recently, I would like to undergo a medical examination to determine the cause.
How should I go about making an appointment at the hospital?

Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/09

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on the location of your lower abdominal pain, possible causes could include gastrointestinal issues, kidney stones, or muscle strain.
However, gastrointestinal problems and kidney stones typically cause pain even at rest.
Since you mentioned that the pain occurs only during exercise, it is likely that you are experiencing an abdominal muscle strain.
This is especially true if you engage in exercises like sit-ups or other activities that involve the abdominal muscles.
Unfortunately, there are no specific medications for abdominal muscle strains; the best approach is to rest gradually, undergo rehabilitation, or apply heat to promote recovery.
If you seek medical advice, you may consider consulting a family medicine physician or a sports medicine specialist.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2018/12/09

More Info

Lower abdominal pain during walking or running can be a frustrating and concerning issue, especially when it interferes with your ability to exercise. Based on your description, the pain occurs on both sides of the abdomen, particularly on the left, and is triggered by physical activity, especially after eating or drinking. This pain seems to be alleviated by stopping movement, which suggests that it may be related to muscle strain or gastrointestinal issues rather than a serious underlying condition.

Possible Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain
1. Muscle Strain: Given that the pain is exacerbated by physical activity, it could be due to a strain in the abdominal muscles. This is particularly likely if you engage in exercises that involve core muscles, such as sit-ups or other abdominal workouts. Muscle strains can occur from overuse, improper warm-up, or inadequate conditioning.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: The timing of your pain in relation to eating suggests that it could also be related to gastrointestinal distress. Eating a large meal or consuming excessive fluids before exercise can lead to discomfort, cramping, or even a condition known as "runner's stomach," which is characterized by gastrointestinal upset during physical activity.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: It’s important to consider your hydration and nutrition strategies. Exercising on a full stomach or after drinking a lot of water can lead to discomfort. It may be beneficial to experiment with your meal timing and composition to see if this alleviates your symptoms.

4. Other Medical Conditions: While less likely given your description, other conditions such as hernias, kidney stones, or even issues related to the reproductive organs (in females) could also cause similar pain. However, these conditions typically present with additional symptoms.

Recommendations for Management
1. Rest and Recovery: If you suspect a muscle strain, rest is crucial. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain and allow your body time to heal. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the core may help in the long term.

2. Modify Your Routine: Consider adjusting your exercise routine. Instead of running immediately after eating, allow more time for digestion. You might also try walking at a slower pace before transitioning to running.

3. Hydration Strategy: Pay attention to your hydration. Drink water throughout the day rather than consuming large amounts right before exercise. This can help prevent discomfort during physical activity.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since this issue has persisted for several years, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. You can start by making an appointment with a family medicine physician or a sports medicine specialist. They can perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and possibly order imaging studies or other tests to rule out any serious conditions.

How to Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment at a hospital or clinic, you can typically do so by:
1. Calling the Clinic or Hospital: Most facilities have a dedicated phone line for scheduling appointments. Be prepared to provide your personal information and a brief description of your symptoms.

2. Online Scheduling: Many healthcare providers offer online appointment scheduling through their websites. You may need to create an account or log in to access this feature.

3. Referral: If you have a primary care physician, they can refer you to a specialist, which may streamline the process.

In conclusion, while lower abdominal pain during walking and running can be concerning, it is often manageable with lifestyle adjustments and proper medical evaluation. Don't hesitate to seek professional help to ensure that you can return to your exercise routine safely and effectively.

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