Sleep is vital to us all! While we sleep, healthy muscle growth occurs, tissue repair and hormone production create overall wellness. Sleep is when we actively restore, strengthen, and process and is crucial for healing after surgery. How do I sleep after surgery is typically one of the first questions asked by those undergoing spinal surgery? Let's look at several tips for achieving restorative sleep after spinal surgery.
- Prepare your sleeping space: Having medications and necessities close by so that you do not have to get up and down or bend and twist for items. Light sheets and blankets will be easier to move without adjusting your position.
- Limit daytime naps: Short naps may be necessary as surgery is an exhausting process. Avoid long hours of napping during the day so that you get the best chance for quality nighttime sleep.
- Avoid stomach sleeping: Stomach sleeping is not usually permitted or recommended for patients recovering from surgery. It would be best to consult with your doctor about this sleeping position.
- Set the alarm for medications: Take your prescribed pain medicines as directed and make sure to call in refills on time, so you are not left with gaps in pain management. Setting the alarm can help you stay on top of your pain and get quality sleep between medication times.
Our spinal surgeons at The Spine Clinic are invested in your swift recovery. To learn more about how you can sleep better post-spine surgery, please contact us at (405) 424-5415 or visit www.thespineclinicok.com
Author:
Dr. Brett Braly is a board-certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in spinal surgery. Dr. Braly is a leading advocate for minimally invasive techniques in spine surgery. Dr. Braly is named in the top “20 under 40” best spine surgeons by the North American Spine Society.
Tags:
- Spinal Surgery
- Post Operation
- Sleeping After Surgery
- Dr. Brett Braly
- The Spine Clinic
