A Simple Calf, Hamstring & Low Back Relief Routine for Patients With Cancer

Leslie Waltke shares one of her favorite go-to exercises: the triple leg stretch. It's a three-in-one stretch that targets the calves, hamstrings, and low back — three areas that tend to get tight and sore, especially during and after cancer treatment.

How to do it:

All you need is a countertop, tabletop, or even the edge of a bed.

1. Calf stretch – Place your hands on the surface, step your feet back with toes pointed forward, and keep your knees straight. Lean forward slightly until you feel a gentle pull in your calves. Hold 15–30 seconds, 1–3 reps.
2. Hamstring stretch – Keeping your feet in place, push your hips back until you feel a stretch down the back of your thighs. Hold 20–30 seconds, 1–3 reps.
3. Low back stretch – Straighten your arms and slide your hips further back to open up a stretch through your low back. Hold 20–30 seconds, 1–3 reps.

Keep every stretch at a comfortable, moderate intensity — this should never feel painful.

Why it's worth adding to your routine:

This stretch is especially helpful for cancer patients and survivors who have trouble standing, sitting, sleeping due to back pain, or general mobility limitations. Leslie recommends it as a great first move in the morning to loosen up your body, or right before bed to ease into a more comfortable night's sleep.

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