Brighton Chiropractor | Hip 90 deg Abductions Great exercise to strengthen and stretch the hips, glutes and ease the lower back. The hip abductor muscles help to raise your leg to the side, away from your body. They also help support your pelvis when you’re standing on one leg. When these muscles are weak, it can affect your balance and mobility. It can also cause low back pain due to instability. This exercise is also very beneficial for runners.