Reducing Sleep Issues After Back Surgery

by Tim on August 24, 2010

in Back Problems, Sleep Disorders, Surgery

Your doctor may have already spoken to you about the importance of getting enough sleep when it comes to your back surgery recovery. Unfortunately, all too many people suffer from sleep issues after back surgery and find themselves unable to get the rest that they need so much. Not sleeping can leave you tired, disoriented, irritable, and certainly not performing up to your best. Below, we have assembled several tips to help you cope with sleep issues after back surgery and get the rest you so badly need.

Adjust Your Prescriptions
There are many prescriptions given for good health that have insomnia as a side effect. Unfortunately, people suffer sleep issues after back surgery as a result of some of the prescriptions they are given in order to help reduce their pain. One consideration is to speak with your doctor about whether or not changing your prescription may be able to help ease your insomnia.

Find A Comfortable Sleeping Position
One of the most important things that you can do in order to avoid sleep problems after having back surgery is to find a comfortable position in which to sleep. There are a few different considerations you may want to remember when positioning yourself for the best sleep. Of course, you will want to bring up any concerns that you may have with your doctor.

  • Sleep on your back with your head and shoulders slightly elevated. Wedge-shaped support pillows can be useful in accomplishing this.
  • Place a pillow under your knees to elevate them a bit and take some strain off of your back.
  • Sleep Issues After Back Surgery

    Photo Credit: Pop Catalin

    Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
    When it comes to ensuring that your back surgery recovery goes as smoothly as possible, it is very important that you follow any instructions that your doctor and physical therapist may have given you. This encompasses activity, diet, and any additional factors that may be important to your treatment.

    Many people suffer from sleep issues after back surgery. However, despite any problems that you may be having, there are a number of things that can be done to help alleviate the problem. While keeping in mind that you must follow all of your doctor’s instructions regarding recovering from back surgery, proper positioning when you go to bed is one of the most important things you can do. Having an adjustment made to your prescriptions may also be necessary. Just be sure to talk to your doctor ahead of time and consider any questions to ask before back surgery before you go in so that you can plan ahead.

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