“How to sleep in a recliner after shoulder surgery” is a common concern for anyone recovering from this type of operation.
Getting quality rest without straining your shoulder is crucial for healing. A recliner can be the perfect solution, providing the right support and allowing you to maintain a semi-upright position, which can help reduce swelling.
This guide aims to help you set up your sleeping area, position your body correctly, and ensure that your recovery is as smooth and pain-free as possible.
We’ll give you simple, easy-to-follow advice to make your nights restful and your recovery swift.
How To Sleep In A Recliner After Shoulder Surgery: A Comfortable Recovery
Sleeping in a recliner after shoulder surgery can help your recovery. Here’s how you can do it in a comfortable and safe way:
Adjust the Recliner Before You Sit
Set up your recliner to the ‘just-right’ angle before sitting down. You’re aiming for a cozy spot that supports your back and keeps your shoulder relaxed, without being too upright or too flat. This preparation means you can avoid any painful adjustments later.
Use Pillows for Extra Support
Pillows aren’t just for your head; they’re perfect for propping up your arm or cushioning other spots. Tuck one under your elbow or behind your neck to keep things comfortable. This helps maintain your shoulder in a safe position while you sleep.
Keep Essential Items Close
Gather all your must-haves – like water, snacks, or the TV remote – and place them within arm’s reach of your good arm. This setup helps you avoid overreaching or twisting movements that could disturb your healing shoulder.
Sit Down Carefully
Ease into your recliner with care. Lower yourself gently, using the strength of your non-operated arm, and let the recliner catch you as you recline back. Moving slowly helps ensure you don’t sprain your shoulder.
Use a Stool for Your Legs
Elevate your legs with a stool to boost circulation and reduce swelling, which is especially important after surgery. This position can also provide extra relaxation for your whole body, not just your shoulder.
Secure Your Surgical Arm
Make sure your operated arm is tucked in comfortably, possibly in a sling if your doctor recommends it. Secure it so that it doesn’t move around too much, avoiding strain on your healing shoulder.
Keep a Light On
Having a soft light on means you can move safely if you need to get up during the night. It’s a small tip, but it can prevent any sudden, sharp movements that might wake you up in pain.
Getting Out of the Recliner
When it’s time to rise, do so with consideration. Press down with your good arm and your legs to lift yourself out without engaging your recovering shoulder. Steady and slow wins the race to recovery.
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The Benefits of Sleeping in a Recliner Following Shoulder Surgery
Sleeping in a recliner after shoulder surgery can be a good idea for several reasons:
Enhanced Comfort
After shoulder surgery, your arm will likely be not able to move, and lying down flat can make you feel stiff and sore. A recliner allows you to sleep semi-upright, which can ease the pressure on your shoulder, helping you to avoid additional pain during the night.
Reducing Swelling
Elevation is important after surgery to help reduce swelling. By sleeping in a recliner, your shoulder can stay above your heart, minimizing swelling and promoting faster healing. This position can also help decrease the chance of fluid build-up around the surgery.
Improved Stability for Your Shoulder
Keeping your shoulder stable is crucial to prevent further injury. While you’re asleep, you won’t have control over your movements, but a recliner can provide a compressed fit for your body, keeping your shoulder in place and reducing the risk of accidental harm.
Better Breathing
Post-operative breathing can sometimes be difficult, especially if you’re dealing with discomfort. Sleeping in a reclined position can open up your chest and make it easier to breathe, which is particularly beneficial if you’re feeling congested after anesthesia or if you’re required to sleep in a sling.
Easier Mobility
In the days following surgery, getting in and out of bed can be a challenge and may strain your shoulder. A recliner often comes with features that help you to gently rise to a standing position, offering support and reducing the effort needed to get up, protecting your shoulder from unnecessary stress.
Is Sleeping in a Recliner after Shoulder Surgery bad for you?
Sleeping in a recliner after shoulder surgery isn’t usually bad for you; in fact, it can be quite helpful. Here’s why:
After shoulder surgery, lying flat can be uncomfortable and might not be safe for your shoulder.
A recliner lets you sleep in a semi-upright position which can reduce swelling and pain. This position can also keep your shoulder in a stable and comfortable position which is very important for healing.
Even so, it’s always best to follow your doctor’s advice. Some people might find it hard to sleep in a recliner due to back pain or they might develop stiffness from staying in one position all night.
If you have concerns, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider to make sure that sleeping in a recliner is okay for your specific situation. They know your medical history and can give you personal advice.
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How long should you sleep in a recliner after shoulder surgery?
The length of time you should sleep in a recliner after shoulder surgery can vary based on the type of surgery you had, how well you’re healing, and what your doctor recommends.
Generally, doctors may suggest sleeping in a recliner for a few weeks after surgery. This is because, during the initial stages of healing, keeping your shoulder in a slightly elevated position can help reduce swelling and pain.
After surgery, you might find that sleeping in a recliner is much more comfortable than lying in a bed. This is because the recliner can provide the support your shoulder needs and keep it in a good position that might not be possible in a bed.
It also makes it easier for you to get up without having to use your shoulder muscles too much, which could cause pain or disturb the healing process.
As your shoulder starts to heal and you become more mobile, you may be able to transition back to your bed. This could take anywhere from a week to several weeks.
It’s important to listen to your body. If you’re still experiencing a lot of pain or discomfort when lying flat, you might need to stay in the recliner for a longer period.
Your doctor will give you guidance on this based on your progress. They might suggest gradually increasing the amount of time you spend in bed versus the recliner.
For example, you might start by napping in your bed or resting there for a few hours before moving back to the recliner.
What to Consider When Looking for a Recliner for Shoulder Surgery?
When you’re picking out a recliner for after your shoulder surgery, you’ll want to think about a few things to make sure it will help you rest and recover well:
Adjustability for Comfort: Look for a recliner that lets you change the angle easily. This means you can sit up when you want to read or watch TV and lean back when it’s time to sleep. A recliner that can adjust in many different ways is best.
Strong Support is Key: Your recliner should be comfy and give good support to your whole body. A high back is great because it will help support your neck, which is super important when you can’t lie down all the way.
Easy to Handle: The recliner should be simple to use. If you can’t move much, a power recliner is handy because it moves on its own with just a push of a button.
Right Size for You and Your Home: Make sure the recliner is the right size for you to sit in comfortably and that it fits in your living space. It shouldn’t be too hard for you to get in and out of it.
Sturdy Build for Safety: A recliner with a strong frame will not wobble, which means you can relax safely without worrying about falling.
Soft and Durable Fabric: Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in the recliner, choose one with fabric that feels nice to touch and can handle a lot of use. If you get hot easily or sweat after your surgery, look for fabric that lets your skin breathe.
Helpful Extras: Some recliners come with special features like massage or heat, which can help you feel better and relax more.
Handy Spaces for Stuff: It’s useful to have a place on your recliner to put things like books, remotes, or cups. Some recliners have storage pockets or little tables attached.
Related Article: Best Back Support for Office Chairs During Pregnancy
Conclusion
Sleeping in a recliner after shoulder surgery can really help you feel more comfortable while you heal. It keeps your shoulder in a good position, which can help with swelling and pain.
Remember, when you’re picking out a recliner, look for one that’s easy to adjust, supports your whole body well, and is simple to use. It should fit you nicely and be sturdy too.
While everyone gets better at their own speed, following your doctor’s advice and using a recliner that works for you will help you get back to feeling good again.
And once your shoulder feels better, you can slowly start to go back to sleeping in your own bed. Just take it one step at a time, and take care of yourself as you recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sleep in my bed instead of a recliner after shoulder surgery?
It’s usually best to sleep in a recliner after shoulder surgery because it keeps your shoulder raised and can reduce swelling and pain. Your doctor might say it’s okay to sleep in a bed if you use pillows to keep your arm supported.
How long do I need to sleep in a recliner?
You might need to sleep in a recliner for a few weeks after your surgery. The exact time can vary based on how fast you’re healing and what your doctor suggests. Always follow your doctor’s advice on when it’s okay to go back to sleeping in a bed.
Will sleeping in a recliner hurt my back?
If your recliner gives good support and you’re comfortable, it shouldn’t hurt your back. But if you start to feel sore, talk to your doctor. They might have tips on how to adjust the recliner or suggest a different way to sleep.
Can I use a regular chair if I don’t have a recliner?
A regular chair might not be the best choice because it doesn’t support your body the same way a recliner does. If you don’t have a recliner, you could try using a bunch of pillows on your bed.
What should I do if I have trouble sleeping in the recliner?
It’s normal to have some trouble sleeping after surgery. Try to make the area around your recliner calm and cozy, and avoid caffeine before bed. If you’re still having trouble, let your doctor know. They might have more ideas to help you rest better.
Julie D. Williams is a seasoned chair connoisseur with a decade in the furniture realm. She combines her keen eye for design and deep knowledge of ergonomics to provide readers with reviews and guides, ensuring comfort and style in every recommendation. Each piece is a fusion of aesthetics and function, tested and approved by Julie. A believer in the power of the perfect seat to transform spaces, she’s your go-to source for impeccable finds. When not reviewing chairs, Julie is on the hunt for vintage décor, weaving comfort and beauty into every aspect of life.