Management

Back Exercises: Knee Lift

Choose a preferred language

To start, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Don’t press your neck or lower back to the floor. Breathe deeply. You should feel comfortable and relaxed in this position:

  • Start by tightening your abdominal muscles.

  • Lift 1a bent knee off the floor, above your buttocks, as directed by your physical therapist or healthcare provider.

  • Hold for  10 seconds. Return to start position.

  • Repeat  3 times.

  • Switch legs.

Man lying on floor with knees bent and feet flat on floor.Man lying on floor with one knee bent and foot flat on floor. Other knee is bent with leg raised towards body.

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 09/01/2023

© 2000-2025 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.
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Lying Hamstring Curl

Learn to do the hamstring curl to help build strong, balanced leg muscles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Leg and Knee Exercises: Leg Press

Learn how to do a leg press to help build strong, balanced leg muscles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Quadruped Arm-Reach Exercise

Try these reach and hold exercises to stretch your neck and upper back.

Read article
Orthopedics
Back Care Tips

Read on for things you can do to prevent acute back pain from coming back, and to reduce chronic back pain symptoms.

Our orthopedic specialists will get you moving pain-free again.

From orthopedic surgeons to physical therapists, our orthopedic team has been built to provide seamless care and support throughout your whole journey.

Browse our specialists