how to sleep on a wedge pillow after shoulder surgery
Hi Tom, I recently had a shoulder surgery and I was advised to sleep on a wedge pillow. Can you guide me on how to go about this?
Sure, I'd be happy to help! You should place your wedge pillow on a flat surface, preferably your bed. The thinner end should be where your legs are, while the thicker end should be towards your head.
I see. So how should I position myself on the pillow?
Great question! You should lay back onto the wedge pillow with your head resting on the thicker end. Your neck to your waist should be aligned with the slope of the pillow. It's important to keep your spine straight to avoid straining your neck or back.
Okay, got it. What about my arms? Where should I place them?
You can either place your arms by your side or on your stomach. The key thing is to ensure you're comfortable and not placing any strain on your shoulders. Remember to also keep your operated shoulder slightly elevated to reduce swelling and pain.
That makes sense. What if I typically like sleeping on my side?
After shoulder surgery, it's generally recommended to avoid sleeping on your side, especially the operated one, to prevent any pressure or strain. If you must sleep on your side, do so on your healthy side and use additional pillows for support.