Sleep allows your body to take rest and facilitates a healing process. However, those who have undergone anterior hip replacement surgery should learn about the proper sleep position. During the post-surgery period, the adjacent tissues and muscles take much time to heal. So, certain movements may cause dislocation of the hip. You must be careful about your sleep positions and other activities after three months of the surgery. But, should you sleep on your back after undergoing hip replacement surgery?
Why sleeping on back is safe after anterior hip surgery
Most hip surgeons recommend sleeping on the back after the surgery. Most doctors also advise their patients to use a number of pillows between their legs. It will help them maintain a proper position during sleep. You should do it at least for the first 5 to 6 weeks. Pillows prevent you from twisting your body unintentionally during sleep. Your new hip will not pop out of the socket.
Your feet should not twist outwards. Make sure the feet are placed naturally and there is no pressure on the hip.
Let us now talk about other sleep positions that are safe for patients who have undergone anterior hip replacements.
Sleeping on sides
You can consult your surgeon to know whether you can sleep on your side. If one side of your hip has not undergone surgery, you may sleep on that side. But, pillows should be lined between your legs. The affected legs must not cross your body’s midline. Your toes should not bend downward. Sleeping with your pillows needs to continue for about 6 weeks.
Sleeping on stomach – the riskiest position
During the post hip replacement period, sleeping on the stomach is a risky position. It causes your legs to turn outward, or your hips may twist. Thus, there is a high risk of dislocation of the hip portion. You should not sleep on your tummy for at least a couple of weeks after surgery.
Other tips for keep your hips safe after surgery
- There should be pillows between knees to ensure they sustain your foot.
- Do not place pillows under your knees during your sleep.
- Choose a firm bed mattress
- Alter your position if you feel discomfort.
- Never twist or turn your toes or leg inward at any time
- Never cross your ankles or legs.
It is also essential to be careful when you get in and out of your bed.
Though sleep positions are important, you have to ensure your safety while getting in and out of the bed.
- Take advantage of your walking aid when you get in your bed.
- Sit on the bed’s edge when you extend your legs.
- Do not try to move both legs simultaneously while getting in a bed.
Similarly, when you get out of your bed, you should remove the pillows. While bending the legs, you should consider the hip side that has not undergone surgery. By sliding your hips gently over the bed’s edge, you can sit up.
