How to Lay After Spinal Fusion

A spinal fusion limits the movement of the vertebrae when a surgeon implants hardware, such as a titanium plate and screws. Recovery and comfort after a spinal fusion can be difficult, but knowing how to lie down after spinal fusion can limit some of the pain and discomfort after surgery.

Instructions

1. Sit down on the edge of your bed. If your doctor wants you to lie down with your lumbar brace or cervical spine brace on, make sure that the brace fits comfortably before you lie down. Otherwise, remove it and place it at the side of your bed where you can easily reach it when you get up. Avoid putting any objects that you need to reach on the floor.

2. Lower yourself slowly onto the side most comfortable for you. Make sure to use your arms to help control your movement and help guide you as you lie down. This will help you limit the speed at which you lie down after a spinal fusion and reduce your discomfort.

3. Slide your legs up onto the bed once you lie on your side. If you choose to remain on your side, put a pillow between your knees to help alleviate pain and reduce the pressure on your spine. If the pillow causes any pain or pressure, take it out from between your knees.

4. Roll onto your back by keeping your knees bent and rolling your body over at one time. Move your body as one unit.

5. Sit up from a side-lying position. If you lie on your back, bend your knees up and then roll over to your side.

6. Slowly slide your legs off the edge of the bed, keeping your knees bent, and push up with your arms. Your legs will act as a counterweight when sitting up.

Tips & Warnings

• After a spinal fusion, you will meet with a physical therapist to make sure that you can walk, get out of bed and climb stairs. Ask the physical therapist about sleeping positions based on which vertebrae were fused. You may find discomfort in certain sleeping positions for the first few weeks after surgery.

• Avoid twisting your spine when you turn your body; this can cause problems with the spine. Try to turn your body as one entire unit, and avoid twisting from side to side. Keep your body in alignment as much as possible.

• Avoid lying on your stomach; it can cause you to over-extend the lower spine.

References

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons : Spinal Fusion
• Spine Universe : Use Good Body Mechanics to Keep your Spine Safe
• Greenwich Hospital Google Docs : Body Mechanics