Causes of Right Lower Abdominal Pain During Running

Jun 02, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Haijun
Introduction
Some patients experience right lower abdominal pain after running—a phenomenon commonly observed in individuals who are physically inactive in daily life. Localized chronic inflammation, such as that seen in chronic appendicitis, may trigger transient shock-like symptoms during running, thereby stimulating local blood vessels or nerves and causing pain or discomfort. Additionally, individuals with poor gastrointestinal function—such as those prone to significant abdominal bloating—may also experience discomfort in the right lower abdomen during physical activity.

Today, people are experiencing increasing levels of stress, and many have developed suboptimal health conditions. Consequently, most individuals turn to running to boost their immune system—yet some experience right lower abdominal pain while running. So, what causes right lower abdominal pain during running?

Causes of Right Lower Abdominal Pain During Running

Some individuals develop right lower abdominal pain after running—a phenomenon especially common among those who are physically inactive in daily life. Localized chronic inflammation—for instance, chronic appendicitis—may trigger transient shock-like responses during running, stimulating local blood vessels or nerves and causing pain or discomfort. Poor gastrointestinal function, such as significant abdominal bloating, may also lead to right lower abdominal discomfort during physical activity. Additionally, pressure changes within the thoracic and abdominal cavities—induced by deep, rapid breathing during exercise—can contribute to right lower abdominal discomfort. It is recommended that such individuals perform warm-up exercises before running or engaging in other physical activities.

Prior to running, it is essential to perform a proper warm-up, primarily involving stretching of muscles, ligaments, and joints. This helps reduce friction across major joints—including the shoulder, hip, wrist, knee, and ankle—and prepares the body for physical activity by promoting relative physiological activation. Such preparation minimizes the risk of muscle strain or skeletal injury caused by sudden, intense exertion.

Individuals experiencing right lower abdominal pain should avoid vigorous physical activity during this period. Their diet should be light and easily digestible, consisting mainly of liquid or semi-liquid foods. We hope this information proves helpful to you.