Sleeping after having neck surgery can be a challenge, as you will need to avoid putting strain on your neck, shoulders, and back.Sleep is important as it allows the body to heal after surgery.Picking a sleep position that is safe and comfortable is important when getting a good night's rest after neck surgery.As you recover from surgery, you should use pillows and extra support when you sleep, and get in and out of bed right.
Step 1: You can sit on the edge of the bed.
You don't want to put your neck at risk by getting in bed.Start by sitting on the edge of the bed.Keep your neck and back straight by putting your feet on the ground.
Step 2: Lying on your elbow is a good idea.
Rest your weight on your elbow as you slowly bend to one side.Keeping weight on your hips and feet will support you.
Step 3: Roll over on either side.
Lift your feet up onto the bed and use your elbow to support you as you roll over.Try to keep your neck and spine straight as you roll.
Step 4: To get out of the bed, roll to one side.
Roll over to one side so you are at the edge of the bed, if you tuck your arms at your sides.Put your feet on the ground as you slowly lift yourself up to sitting.As you rise up, try to keep your neck and spine straight.If you want to get out of bed, put weight on your legs.During the first few weeks of your recovery, you may need someone to help you get in and out of bed.As needed, ask a friend, family member, partner, or caretakers to help you.
Step 5: If your doctor recommends a collar or brace, follow the instructions given to you.
You may have been ordered to wear a neck collar by your surgeon.When to wear it is up to the surgeon.When the collar or brace is on, some people find it more comfortable to sleep in a recliner.
Step 6: It's a good idea to sleep on your back to protect your spine and neck.
The best position to sleep in is on your back.As you lie on your back, keep your head, neck, and hips aligned.Some people find it easier to put their feet on the bed when they are lying on their back.
Step 7: Try sleeping on your side if you can't lie down.
It is possible to sleep on one side.When you sleep on your side, bend your legs.If you want to sleep, do not sleep on your stomach.It is safer to sleep on your back or side.
Step 8: You should put a pillow under your head.
You don't want your neck to sink below your shoulders if the pillow is too high, so make sure it's not too flat.Check that the pillow keeps your neck straight and not twisted to one side.It is possible to give your head and neck more support with a foam pillow.
Step 9: It's a good idea to use a pillow under your legs for added comfort.
If you are sleeping on your back, it is a good idea to slide a pillow or towel under your legs.You can put a pillow between your legs if you are sleeping on your side.Place a pillow behind your back and hips to prevent you from rolling out of a side sleeping position if you put your arms under your head.
Step 10: Keeping your arms below your neck is important.
Make sure your arms are on either side of you.Your neck and shoulders will not be strained while you sleep.Placing a blanket over your body while you sleep can help keep your arms from moving in the night.
Step 11: It's a good idea to create a quiet, cool sleep environment.
You can get a good night's sleep if your bedroom is quiet and comfortable.If you want to sleep, make sure the environment is not too warm or bright.
Step 12: Extra pillows and blankets are within reach.
If you like having extra pillows on hand, make sure they are easy to reach.You don't need to move a lot to reach them by the side of your bed or chair.
Step 13: Change sleep positions on a log roll.
You need to support yourself on one elbow if you want to switch from sleeping on your back to sleeping side by side.Try to keep your neck, shoulders, and back straight as you roll.
Step 14: If you need it, take over-the-counter pain medication.
If you have neck surgery, use the drugs to manage the pain.Follow the instructions on the label.If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain medication.Do not take more than they recommend.