Knowing how to stretch your back can help you ease pain and improve your range of motion.

This can help you perform better in competitive sports or reduce the risk of injury from everyday activities.

Over time, muscle tension can cause significantback painand increase your risk of aback injury.

Woman does the double legged stretch.

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Routinely performing back stretches can help ward these issues off.

Avoid pushing past your pain limit when stretching.

Listen to your body which will help ultimately lead to a calmer nervous system.

A woman in the supine position twists her spine by bringing her knees to one side.

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Take special care when stretching during pregnancy.

The hormones supporting your pregnancy could lead to overstretching or injury.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any questions you have.

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Warming Up Your Muscles

Stretching cold muscles can lead to injury.

Talk to your healthcare provider about this or any other exercise regimen before getting started.

Your provider can determine whether any of these back stretches could be harmful for you.

Person with light skin and short hair lies on their back with knees bent

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They may also suggest seeing a physical therapist, who can verify you’re doing everything properly and safely.

Sudhakaran P.Acupuncture for Low-Back Pain.Med Acupunct.

Published online August 10, 2023:acu.2023.0054.

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doi:10.1089/acu.2023.0054

U.S. Department of Defense.Complementary Alternative Medicine for Low Back Pain.

Cat Cow Stretch

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Seated Forward Curl Back

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Side Stretch

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