How to Sleep After Knee Surgery

Recovering from knee surgery comes with its challenges, especially when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep. Post-surgery effects like pain, swelling, and discomfort can all make falling asleep difficult, but finding a comfortable position to sleep and using the right techniques can help improve your sleep quality during the healing process. In this guide, learn how to sleep after knee surgery and position yourself properly for bedtime. With the help of the Freedom Leg brace – the best crutches for knee surgery – you can maintain mobility and reduce swelling in the day, improving your chances of restful sleep.

The Best Positions for Sleeping After Knee Surgery

Choosing the right sleep position is key to minimizing pain and helping your knee recover properly. Below are two frequently recommended positions to help you sleep more comfortably after surgery.

Sleeping On Your Side

For side sleepers, placing a pillow between your knees is essential to prevent unnecessary twisting or pressure on your healing knee. Keeping your leg straight and aligned in this position can help reduce discomfort throughout the night. The Freedom Leg brace provides additional stability during the day by reducing pressure on your knee joint, which can make it easier to relax when you lie down at night.

Sleeping on Your Back

Sleeping on your back is often the preferred position following knee surgery, as it keeps your leg straight without putting pressure on the joint. To reduce swelling and stiffness, you can use the Freedom Leg during the day, which makes it easier to find a comfortable sleeping posture at night.

Tips for Sleeping After Knee Surgery

In addition to finding the right position, practicing certain habits can improve your overall sleep quality during recovery. Explore some of our tips to ensure better rest.

Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach

Sleeping on your stomach should be avoided after knee surgery, as it can cause unnecessary strain on your knee and lower back. This position also makes it harder to keep your leg in a neutral, relaxed posture, leading to increased discomfort.

Elevate Your Leg

Keeping your leg elevated above heart level while resting or sleeping helps reduce swelling and improves blood circulation. Elevation is especially helpful in the early weeks after surgery, when swelling tends to be more severe. If you’re sleeping on your back, you can put a pillow or towel underneath your leg to elevate it.

Use an Ice Pack Before Sleeping

Applying an ice pack to your knee before bed is an effective way to minimize pain and swelling, making it easier to fall asleep. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to protect your skin before applying the pack. Incorporating this step into your bedtime routine can further support your recovery by keeping inflammation under control.

Utilize the Freedom Leg to Sleep Comfortably

Preparing for a rested night of sleep doesn’t start at night – utilizing a hands-free, non-weight bearing device like the Freedom Leg brace throughout the day can promote faster healing by keeping pressure off your knee. The unique design of this hands-free knee crutch allows you to climb stairs, carry items, and stay mobile without compromising your recovery. Designed with your comfort in mind, the Freedom Leg brace is an essential tool for a smoother recovery and better sleep. 

Explore our reviews to learn more about how the Freedom Leg has given independence to those undergoing knee surgery, ankle surgery, foot surgery, lower-leg amputations, and other non-weight bearing procedures.