Dismiss Modal

Management

Back Exercises: Side Bend Stretch

Choose a preferred language

To start, sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Shift your weight slightly forward to avoid rounding your back. Relax. Keep your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned. Or you can start in a standing position (not shown) with your arms by your side and your feet shoulder-width apart. Next:

  • Stretch your right arm overhead. Or you can lift both arms over your head and clasp your hands, pulling your shoulders gently back.

  • Slowly bend to the left. Don’t twist your torso. Stay within your pain limits.

  • Hold for  20 seconds. Return to starting position.

  • Repeat  2 to 5 times. Then switch to the other side.

    Man sitting in chair doing side stretch exercise.

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024

© 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.
Man holding his knee over text

Orthopedics CTA

Find a Doctor
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Hip Safety: Getting Into and Out of Bed

After hip replacement surgery, getting in and out of bed can be difficult. These instructions can help.

Read article
Orthopedics
Relieving Tension in Your Back

Being relaxed helps keep your mind healthy and your back ready to move. Read on for some helpful tips.

Read article
Orthopedics
Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps

When climbing up and down steps using crutches, remember this rule: Up with the good (unaffected leg) and down with the bad (affected leg). Read on for helpful tips and illustrations.

Read article
Orthopedics
Post-Op Tips: Foot

These tips will help you recover after foot surgery.