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Slide show

Slide show: Pregnancy stretches

By Mayo Clinic staff
 

Pregnancy stretches — photo of pregnant woman practicing the low back stretch

Low back stretch

Pregnancy stretches can help you feel your best, especially as your pregnancy progresses.

One of the most common pregnancy stretches is the low back stretch, which can help relieve backaches. Rest on your hands and knees with your head in line with your back. Pull in your stomach, rounding your back slightly. Hold for several seconds, then relax your stomach and back — keeping your back as flat as possible. Don't let your back sag. Gradually work up to 10 repetitions.

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References
  1. Exercises during your pregnancy. Washington, D.C.: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; 2009.
  2. Christensen TJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 24, 2010.
  3. Easing back pain during pregnancy. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp115.cfm. Accessed June 14, 2010.
  4. Friend JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 24, 2010.
PR00092 Sept. 21, 2010

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