Dismiss Modal

Management

Pelvic Tilt, Leg Lift for Back Pain During Pregnancy

Choose a preferred language

Before trying these exercises, talk to your healthcare provider to make sure they are safe for you. Ask your healthcare provider how many times to do each exercise.


Pelvic tilt

This exercise stretches muscles in your buttocks and lower back. It also makes your stomach stronger and helps set up good posture.

  1. Get on your hands and knees with your back straight. A mat can help cushion your knees.

  2. Try to pull your stomach muscles in. Tuck in your buttocks. This will tilt your pelvis up. As your pelvis tilts, your back will rise toward the ceiling.

  3. Hold and count to 5, then relax.

Pregnant woman on all fours doing pelvic tilt exercise.


Leg lifts

This makes the muscles of your back, buttocks, and stomach stronger.

  1. Get down on your hands and knees. Put your arms directly under your shoulders. Keep your knees shoulder-width apart.

  2. Round your back. Then lift your left knee and gently bring it toward your elbow. Look at your knee as you raise it. (Stop moving your knee if you feel pressure in your stomach.)

  3. Keeping your knee slightly bent, extend your leg. Lift your leg until you feel a stretch in your low back. Don’t lift your leg higher than your hip.

  4. Hold for 5 counts, then lower your left leg. Repeat the exercise with your right leg.

Pregnant woman on all fours doing leg lift exercise.

Featured in

Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP

Online Medical Reviewer: Heather Trevino

Online Medical Reviewer: Irina Burd MD PhD

Date Last Reviewed: 08/01/2024

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Pregnant woman holding her belly over text

OB/GYN

Find a Doctor
Related Articles
Read article
OB/GYN
Fetal Heart Monitoring

Fetal heart rate monitoring measures the heart rate and rhythm of your baby (fetus). This lets your doctor see how your baby is doing.

Read article
OB/GYN
Healthy Weight Loss After Pregnancy

Eating healthy and being physically active can get you back in shape after having a baby. But don’t rush it. Take it slowly.

Read article
OB/GYN
If You Are Rh Negative

If you're Rh negative, ask your healthcare provider about getting treated with Rho(D) immune globulin. Even if you miscarry or don't deliver the baby, you will still need treatment.

Read article
OB/GYN
Preparing for Pregnancy

Even before you become pregnant, your health matters to your future baby. Adopt good health habits today. And take care of any health problems you have before becoming pregnant.