Sleeping after a hip replacement

Hi Carol I had TLHR posterior approach last March and sleeping on my back for 6 weeks was horrendous i used to go downstairs and sleep on my recliner.

I asked my consultant why I had to do this and he said if you sleep on your side your muscles are so relaxed your hip could dislocate, it all depends on what procedure your surgeon did so just be careful and follow his guidelines, good luck on your recovery.

Hi Carol,

I was told twelve weeks precautions and dreaded lying on my back, even tried to practice before op but, looking after the hip was my main concern. I packed pillows down each side and one between the legs, I normally had 2- 3 hours at a time, not great but as I said the hip was more important. I started sleeping on operated side at eight weeks when it felt more comfortable. We were told at joint school recliners were not recommended as they did not hold the hip in the correct position. After going through it and looking back, it seems to have gone quickly, don't forget we have all been there and it is possible, uncomfortable at times but, something you can get through. Good luck with the rest of your recovery.

I too hated sleeping on my back. I used to get to sleep ok, and then I'd wake up and think, great, I've slept through the night, and then realise that it was only midnight! Then I used to prowl around on my slightly squeaky crutches.... At 3 weeks you are half way through, hang on in there... Now, weirdly I often end up my back. All the best, Judith

Hi, two years after my THR, I sleep on my back all the time now. I also have a noise machine and the sound of waves slapping on the shore sends me to sleep within minutes.

HI -I am 2 weeks post-op. Did not get home until 4 weeks ago bc I spent a week at Kessler Rehabilitation Center. After the hospital bed, my own bed felt wonderful! I had RTHR and what I do is to put a pillow under my right leg and I'm off to sleep.

Good luck!

Georgette

i was told to do my physio bed exercises at least 4 times a day. so i did them when i woke up. then after lunch I'd get on my bed, do my exercises and sleep for a few hours, do exercises again when i woke up and again before bed at night. i found this broke the day up and also helped me sleep.

i know during the first 2 -3 weeks i was very tired and sleeping was not a problem.

another thing that helped was to give yourself small targets each day and write down your progress.

i think the more i did during the day helped with sleeping.

good luck.