Top 5 Physical Therapy Exercises for Lower Back Pain

Older Man doing back stretch

Lower back pain is something many people deal with. It can make everyday tasks like walking, sitting, or even sleeping uncomfortable. The good news is that physical therapy exercises can really help reduce pain and strengthen your back

Here are 5 simple exercises we at Rehab Advantage in Dublin and Sandersville recommend to help your lower back feel better:

1. Pelvic Tilts

What it does: Strengthens your stomach muscles and helps your back move better.

How to do it:

  • Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. 
  • Tighten your belly muscles and gently press your lower back into the floor. 
  • Hold for 5 seconds, then relax. 
  • Repeat 10 times. 

2. Cat-Cow Stretch

What it does: Loosens up your spine and helps with stiffness.

How to do it:

  • Get on your hands and knees. 
  • Arch your back up like a cat (tuck your head and tailbone). 
  • Then slowly drop your belly down and lift your head and tailbone (like a cow). 
  • Go back and forth for 1–2 minutes. 

3. Glute Bridge

What it does: Strengthens your hips and lower back.

How to do it:

  • Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat. 
  • Tighten your glutes (butt muscles) and lift your hips off the floor. 
  • Hold for a few seconds at the top, then lower slowly. 
  • Repeat 10–15 times. 

4. Knee-to-Chest Stretch

What it does: Gently stretches your lower back and hips.

How to do it:

  • Lie on your back with both legs straight. 
  • Pull one knee toward your chest and hold it with both hands. 
  • Hold for 20–30 seconds, then switch legs. 
  • Do 2–3 times on each side. 

5. Child’s Pose

What it does: Gently stretches your lower back and helps relax tight muscles.

How to do it:

  • Kneel on the floor with your big toes touching and knees apart. 
  • Sit your hips back toward your heels and stretch your arms forward on the floor. 
  • Rest your forehead on the ground and take slow, deep breaths. 
  • Hold for 30–60 seconds. 

Final Tips

  • Go slow and focus on good form. 
  • Don’t force it—if something hurts, stop and talk to your physical therapist. 
  • Be consistent. Doing these exercises regularly can really help over time. 

If you’re struggling with lower back pain, these gentle exercises are a great way to start feeling better. 

If you are located in the Dublin or Sandersville area, we would love to serve you! Click here to call us now and schedule an appointment!