Hip replacement — best position?

Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knee, or on your non-operated side with a pillow between your knees. Do not let your operated hip cross your body's midline: hip precautions apply during sleep for 6–12 weeks. Many patients find a recliner more comfortable than a bed in the first 1–2 weeks.

Knee replacement, can I sleep on my side?

Side sleeping is possible with a pillow between the knees to keep the operated leg aligned and reduce pressure on the joint. Back sleeping with the leg elevated slightly is often more comfortable in the first 2–4 weeks. Avoid sleeping on your stomach as it puts the knee into uncomfortable extension.

Shoulder surgery: how to sleep?

Sleeping flat is very difficult after shoulder surgery, most patients sleep semi-reclined (in a recliner or propped up at 45 degrees with pillows) for 4–6 weeks. A pillow under the elbow reduces overnight pulling on the shoulder joint. Do not sleep on the operated shoulder.

Abdominal surgery: how long elevated?

Most abdominal surgery patients sleep elevated at 30–45 degrees for the first 1–2 weeks to reduce tension on the wound. Returning to flat sleeping typically happens gradually from week 2 as wound discomfort reduces. Side sleeping is usually possible once turning over is manageable, typically week 2–3.

When can I sleep normally again?

For most day-case and minor procedures: 1–2 weeks. For knee and hip replacement: comfortable night sleep typically achieved by weeks 4–6, though some position restrictions remain longer. For shoulder surgery: 6–8 weeks before side sleeping on the operated side is comfortable. Disrupted sleep is normal: it affects the majority of surgical patients in the first month.