Experiencing Side Pain While Running: Is It Dangerous?
Experiencing Side Pain While Running: Is It Dangerous?. Sharp pain under the ribs during running or swimming, known as ETAP (exercise-related transient abdominal pain), affects about 70% of athletes. The primary causes are often irritation of the abdominal lining or fatigue of the diaphragm. This article is edited in a practical format for general readers, highlighting clinical context, warning signs, risk groups, and safe care pathways. It also clarifies when to seek medical attention, how to coordinate with clinicians, and how rehabilitation planning can reduce long-term complications.