How to Sleep Post Shoulder Surgery

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Shoulder surgery is a common procedure that many people undergo every year. Surgeons perform different types to increase the range of motion a patient has and to help them recover from a major injury. Once you head home, you'll likely experience some pain and discomfort. To lessen those feelings, opt for some simple tips on how to sleep post-shoulder surgery.

Use Ice

Ice is a natural way to reduce discomfort and pain because it helps battle inflammation. Use an ice pack or a handful of ice that you wrap in a towel. Apply the ice to your shoulder for 15 to 20 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes. Always keep an eye out for ice burn symptoms, like blisters and changes to your skin color.

Skip the Bed

Some patients worry about hitting their shoulder while sleeping, especially if they share a bed with another person. Consider sleeping in a recliner for the first few nights to take the pressure off your shoulder. You may want to add a pillow to lift your shoulder, too. Many patients also enjoy using adjustable beds because they can adjust the bed to a position that's more comfortable for them.

Create a Pillow Barrier

Collect as many throw pillows and other types as you can to create a barrier around you at night. Stack the pillows between you and anyone who shares your bed. This keeps them from rolling over and onto you. If you sleep alone, use the pillows to form a barrier on both sides of your body to keep you from hitting your shoulder against the mattress.

Wear Your Sling

After going through surgery, your surgeon will send you home with either a brace or a sling. Both items are similar and keep you from moving your shoulder too much as you heal. Slings do a great job of keeping you safe when doing simple things during the day, but they also work well at night. Though it can feel uncomfortable wearing a brace or sling as you sleep, it won't take too long before you feel more comfortable.

Try a Wedge Pillow

A wedge pillow looks like a large piece of pie or pizza. It helps you get into a comfortable incline position and works better than multiple standard pillows that can slide as you move in your sleep. You can use multiple pillows behind your back, but avoid body pillows that won't support your shoulder.

Wear Loose Clothing

Doctors often recommend that patients wear loose clothing after surgery. Whether you need information on how to sleep after gallbladder surgery or shoulder surgery, think about how much discomfort you feel when changing clothes as you recover. Tight clothing that goes over your head can cause a lot of pain as you remove them. Stick to loose pieces that are easy to pull on and off like an oversized button-up shirt. It's also helpful to pick a fabric that doesn't rub uncomfortably against your body.

Try an Abductor Pillow

Abductor pillows are unique because they attach to your sling and don't sit right on the bed. Once attached, it sits between your arm and hip to gently lift your shoulder into the air. Some people find that they experience less pain when sleeping with one of these pillows, especially when paired with adjustable mattresses.

Try Stretching

Stretching is a simple way to help your shoulder heal without causing pain or discomfort. Try some simple movements that stretch the muscles in your back and neck along with your shoulder. You may want to take the medicine your doctor prescribed before stretching to give it time to work before you climb into bed.

Get the Sleep You Need During Should Surgery Recovery

Shoulder surgery is a must for patients suffering from certain injuries. You'll usually spend 24 hours or longer in the hospital before your surgeon sends you home to recover. Implementing one or more of these sleeping tips will help you get the sleep you need to heal from your surgery.