A discectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part or all of a damaged disc from the spine. It can relieve pain, numbness, and weakness caused by a herniated or bulging disc. However, recovering from a discectomy can take several weeks or months, and you may need to follow some precautions to avoid complications and promote healing.
One of the most common questions patients have after back surgery procedures such as a discectomy or less invasive microdiscectomy is whether they can sleep in a recliner or a bed. The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors, such as the type of surgery, the location of the disc, and your individual condition. In this article you will learn about some of the pros and cons of sleeping in a recliner or a bed after a discectomy, as well as some tips on how to do it safely and comfortably.
Pros and Cons of Sleeping in a Recliner after a Discectomy
Sleeping in a recliner can have some benefits for a patient who has undergone a discectomy, such as:
- Reducing pressure on the spine – A recliner can allow you to adjust the angle of your back and legs, which can reduce the pressure on your spine and the surrounding muscles and nerves. This can ease pain and inflammation and prevent further damage to the disc.
- Increasing blood circulation – A recliner can also boost blood circulation in the lower body, which can facilitate healing and prevent blood clots. By elevating your legs above your heart level, you can reduce swelling and fluid retention in the legs and feet.
- Enhancing comfort and relaxation – A recliner can provide more comfort and support than a regular chair or sofa, especially if it has features such as lumbar support, massage, or heat. A recliner can also help you relax and reduce stress, which can boost your mood and immune system.
However, sleeping in a recliner after a discectomy can also have some drawbacks, such as:
- Increasing stiffness and soreness – Sleeping for too long in any position can cause muscles and joints to become stiff and sore, which can slow down recovery and increase pain. Sleeping in a recliner can also make it harder to get up and move around, which is essential for preventing stiffness and maintaining flexibility.
- Interfering with proper posture – A recliner can hinder proper posture if it is not adjusted correctly or if you slouch or lean forward while sitting. Poor posture can put more strain on the spine and affect the alignment of the vertebrae, which can lead to more pain and complications.
- Delaying functional recovery – A recliner can also delay your functional recovery if you rely on it too much or use it as a substitute for other activities. Sleeping in a recliner can make you less active and less motivated to perform physical therapy or exercises that are crucial for restoring your strength, mobility, and function.
Pros and Cons of Sleeping in a Bed after a Discectomy
Sleeping in a bed can have some benefits for a patient who has had a discectomy, such as:
- Providing more space and freedom – Sleeping in a bed can give you more space and greater freedom to change your position and find the most comfortable one for your back. Sleeping in a bed can also allow you to sleep with your partner or pet, which can improve your emotional wellbeing and sleep quality.
- Supporting natural spine alignment – Sleeping in a bed can also support the natural alignment of your spine if you use the right mattress, pillow, and bedding. A medium-firm mattress can provide enough support and cushioning for your spine and its discs. A pillow that matches your neck height and curvature can keep your head and neck in line with your spine. Soft and breathable bedding can regulate your body temperature and moisture and prevent overheating or sweating.
- Encouraging normal sleep patterns – Sleeping in a bed can also promote normal sleep patterns, which can benefit your health and recovery. It can help you maintain your circadian rhythm, which is the natural cycle of sleep and wakefulness that regulates your hormones, metabolism, and immune system. Sleeping in a bed can also help you avoid daytime napping, which can disrupt your sleep cycle and make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep at night.
However, sleeping in a bed after a discectomy can also have some drawbacks, such as:
- Causing more pain and discomfort – If you sleep in a bed, you may experience more pain and discomfort if you choose the wrong sleeping position or mattress. Sleeping on your stomach can put too much stress on your healing spine and its discs. Sleeping on a mattress that is too soft or too hard can cause pressure points and misalignment in your spine. A mattress that is too old or saggy can also offer less support for your back.
- Increasing the risk of infection and bleeding – Sleeping in a bed can also raise the risk of infection and bleeding if you do not take proper care of your surgical wound. It could expose your wound to dirt, dust, or bacteria that can cause infection. It can also cause friction or pressure on your wound that can cause bleeding or reopening of the stitches.
- Making it difficult to get in and out of bed – A bed can be harder to get in and out of, especially if your bed is too high or too low. Getting in and out of bed can require bending, twisting, or lifting, which can aggravate your back pain and injury, and it can also be challenging if you have limited mobility.
Tips on How to Sleep in a Recliner or a Bed after a Discectomy
Whether you choose to sleep in a recliner or a bed after a discectomy, these tips can help you do it safely and comfortably:
- Follow your doctor’s instructions – Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to sleep based on your type of surgery, location of the disc, and individual condition. You should follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and bring up any questions or concerns you may have. The doctor may also prescribe pain medication, anti-inflammatory medication, or muscle relaxants to help you sleep better.
- Use pillows and cushions – Pillows and cushions can support your back and legs and reduce pressure on your spine and its discs. Place a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back or between your knees if you sleep on your side. You can also use a wedge pillow or a cushion to elevate your upper body, and a rolled towel or cervical pillow can support your neck and head.
- Change your position frequently – You should change your position often to avoid getting stiff and sore, and avoid staying in one position for more than an hour or two. Use the roll, sit, and rise method to get out of bed or a recliner safely and easily. This method involves rolling slowly to the side of the bed or the recliner, sitting up, then getting up.
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach – Sleeping on your stomach can put too much stress on your healing spine and its discs. If you cannot avoid this position altogether, place a pillow under your stomach to retain your spine’s alignment and ease pressure on your spinal discs.
- Choose a comfortable and supportive mattress – Choose a mattress that is both supportive and comfortable while suiting your preference and needs. A medium-firm mattress can provide enough support and cushioning for your spine and its discs. You should replace your mattress if it is more than 10 years old or shows signs of wear and tear, such as sagging, lumps, or stains.
- Keep your wound clean and dry – Keep your wound dry and clean to prevent infection and bleeding. Change your dressing regularly, and follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for the wound. You should also avoid scratching, rubbing, or touching your wound, and do not use creams, lotions, or oils on the wound unless your doctor advises you to do so.
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule – A consistent sleep schedule can promote your health and hasten recovery. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, and avoid napping during the day. You should also avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or heavy meals before bedtime, as they can interfere with your sleep quality. Create a comfortable and relaxing sleep environment by keeping your room dark, quiet, and cool.
The decision to sleep in a recliner or a bed after discectomy surgery is a personal one that is influenced by various factors, such as comfort, pain level, and the specific details of the surgery. While both options have their advantages and drawbacks, the key is to find a balance that promotes restful sleep and supports your recovery. Remember to consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice, ensuring a smooth and successful postoperative journey.
Even though discectomy surgery is a common and generally quite successful procedure, a hole is frequently left in the outer wall of the disc. In fact, patients with these large holes in their discs are more than twice as likely to reinjure themselves by having what is known as a reherniation. These reherniations often require additional surgery or even fusions. Fortunately, there is a new treatment specifically designed to close the large holes that are often left in spinal discs after discectomy surgery. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us today.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.