6 weeks post op still can’t sleep

Posted , 8 users are following.

This  Surgery has been brutal to say the least. But the worst part is not being able to lay down, go to sleep, and stay asleep for more than an hour. I will go to sleep with no pain get comfortable fall asleep but wake up after an hour in excruciating pain. I’m not moving I’m laying on my back, I don’t understand what’s going on. Pain pills, Tylenol, ice, none of that helps at all. Anybody? I’m so dead tired !!!!

0 likes, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • Posted

    Are you using lots of pillows? By propping your arm so it won't move might help. I had 5 pillows surrounding me.

    • Posted

       Yes I currently have six pillows, and a wedge in my bed underneath all the pillows. It’s just getting in that sound sleep and not moving I think causes the shoulder to get sore. But I don’t know? 
  • Posted

    Continue with your meds as directed. Try sleeping in a chair with foot rest or recliner. Also purchase some Sleepy time Tea and have 2/3 cups of that before bedtime. Purchase some Melatonin as well and take a few of those before bed. This should help; helped me. Take care.
    • Posted

      I make lots of potty trips each night without adding any tea - LOL!
    • Posted

       Sleeping in a chair? That’s a big NO!! Melatonin? Yes, I will try that. Sleepytime tea? Yes, I will try that too.

       I love my bed and I want to sleep in my bed I do want want to sleep in a tiny recliner in the friggin living room.

      There is no way I’m doing that. Besides I’m reclined because I have a wedge in my bed with a bunch of pillows  that keeps me at a   45% degree angle. 

  • Posted

    I so hear you Mia! I couldn't sleep unless I was in a semi-reclined position and that wasn't really all that great either. My problem wasn't pain, though laying flat (on back) did tend to put pressure on the operated on shoulder, but really not being able to sleep as I am most comfortable - thus not really deep sleep. Plus the only 'reclining' option I had was a reclining desk chair with chair in front for my legs OR a futon that was more comfortable but with arms that required me to 'scoot' into position which jarred my shoulder a bit.

    Half joking - but I sort of wish that instead of 6 weeks in a sling, how about an induced coma to keep one immobile?!? At least one would get rest razz. (haha)

    • Posted

        Oh my gosh.. SaneXain... you just made me laugh out loud. That’s very funny. When I first read about the surgery before I had it, it said “4 to 6 weeks in a sling and then physical therapy”. I thought  that’s not that bad ..... i had both of my meniscus done on my knees this will be a breeze. Until a week before the surgery I ran into somebody at a party that had the surgery she looked at me and said “are you kidding me? Months and months and months of pain and rehab“ !!

      I stood there and looked at her hoping it was just her. Unfortunately she was 100% correct. The doctors do not tell you how long the surgery takes to recover from !!!!!

  • Posted

    When you’re laying flat that puts a lot of pressure on the affected shoulder. Try lying on your side opposite the surgical one. I still can’t dletp in my bed. My couch supports my back n shoulder better
    • Posted

      Maybe you misunderstood, I’m sleeping in a 45 degree angle with a wedge and 7 pillows!  I can’t lay flat, too painful.

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.