Getting enough sleep after back surgery can be frustrating. The pain. The discomfort. Unable to find a comfortable sleeping position. Recovering from back surgery can be a daunting journey, marked not only by the physical healing process, but also by the challenge of finding comfortable rest.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Whether you’re struggling to find a comfortable sleeping position, grappling with pain management, or simply seeking ways to enhance your sleep quality, we’re going to address your concerns and help create a smoother, more comfortable recovery journey. This post will provide details for improving safe and comfortable sleep following a back surgery or injury such as a spinal fusion, spinal fracture, slipped disk, or laminectomy. It also includes equipment recommendations, setup, and techniques.
If you would like to see this content in a video, please check out my YouTube channel EquipMeOT.
Overview
Please note: Before we begin, you need to make sure you follow all the instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer. The steps below are only to provide guidance with installing or assembling equipment, but you should always follow the warnings and instructions provided by the manufacturer and always speak with your medical team before adding new equipment to your routine.
Equipment Recommendations
Adjustable Bed Frame
My first equipment recommendation is not a traditional piece of equipment…it’s a bed. My recommendation is to use an electrically adjustable bed. Adjustable beds flex like a hospital beds where the feet and head of the bed move at the push of a button. The ability to control these positions will conserve a lot of energy and allow you to rest more comfortably.
Pillows
With most of the positioning tips I provide, you’ll want and need several different pillows or wedges to assist with getting you from a sit to a lay position. Access to a bed rail or security rail will be helpful as well. This is especially true if you’re recovering from something that requires using a stabilizing brace or anything else that is very restrictive of your movement. A bed rail or bed ladder can make a massive difference in your bed mobility.
Bed Rail
Access to a bed rail or security rail will be helpful as well. This is especially true if you’re recovering from something that requires using a stabilizing brace or anything else that is very restrictive of your movement. A bed rail or bed ladder can make a massive difference in your bed mobility.
Bed Ladder
Wedge
Back Positioning Elevated Head to Sleep After Back Surgery
I like having an elevated head position as this tends to be more comfortable. A bed with an elevated head position is generally better than a recliner to help support and keep your body aligned while you heal.
To start, position a large wedge at the head of the bed.
Stack some pillows on top of the wedge to cover it and add some softness.
For best bed mobility during spinal injury recovery, utilize the log roll technique. We generally want the ankles, knees, hips, and shoulders in a straight line. Keep the spine in a straight line and, while sitting in bed, lay straight back onto the wedge and pillows.
Another benefit of the elevated head position is that it can take some pressure off the incision site if it lies in the middle of your back rather than off to one side. In some cases, laying flat on the back is the only option, and elevating your head can shift some of the weight towards your hips rather than directly onto your wound.
Sleep After Back Surgery By Back Positioning Flat
In some procedures, laying flat on the back is required, and elevating the head is not allowed. Choose a flatter, softer pillow to position yourself comfortably for this.
Once again, use the log roll position to maneuver ourselves into the bed, then keep the ankles, hips, and shoulders in a straight line as we gently recline into a laying place.
Side Positioning to Sleep After Back Surgery
Laying on your side may be the most comfortable position because of the incision. On the other hand, keeping the spinal position stable is even more important. Laying on your side with improper or inadequate support can cause harm and slow the recovery process.
While laying flat on your back, position a pillow between your legs with your knees bent.
Hold another pillow in your arm so it can be ready after rolling.
While rolling from back to side, keeping your shoulders and hips in the same plane is vital. Remember not to roll your shoulders or hips before the other.
You should also ensure your hips and shoulders are perpendicular to the bed.
If you’re worried about rolling around during the night, keeping a pillow behind your back is a great way to position yourself in a comfortable position securely.
To get out of the side position, remove any supports you added behind you, then roll slowly onto your back, keeping the shoulders and hips in the same plane to maintain proper spinal alignment.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post. Hopefully, you got some values and ideas to help you with sleeping after back surgery or injury.
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