Management

Tailor Sit, Trunk Turn 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.


Tailor sit

This exercise makes your thigh, pelvic, and hip muscles more flexible.

  1. Sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together. Your back should be straight.

  2. Gently lean forward until you feel a mild stretch in your hip and thigh muscles. Your back should remain straight. Don’t push down on your legs with your hands.

  3. Hold and count to 5, then relax.

    Pregnant woman sitting on floor doing tailor sit exercise.


Trunk turns

This helps make your trunk (from your shoulders to your hips) more flexible.

  1. Sit on the floor with your legs crossed. Your back should be straight.

  2. Put your left hand on your right knee. Rest your right hand on the floor to support yourself and help you balance.

  3. Slowly twist right. To do this, turn your head, shoulders, and chest as far right as you comfortably can. Keep your hips, knees, and feet in place.

  4. Hold for 5 counts. Then change sides and slowly twist left.

Pregnant woman sitting on floor doing tailor sit exercise.

Featured in

Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP

Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Tennille Dozier RN BSN RDMS

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.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
OB/GYN
Pelvic Tilt, Leg Lift for Back Pain During Pregnancy

Before trying these exercises, talk to your healthcare provider to make sure they are safe for you.

Read article
OB/GYN
Healthy Eating Habits During Pregnancy

Your health can affect your baby’s growth. Here are some ways to stay healthy.

Read article
OB/GYN
Nutrition During Pregnancy

Not only is eating nutritious food good for you and your baby, it also can ease some of the discomforts of pregnancy. A balanced diet can help minimize symptoms, such as nausea and constipation.

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.