Finding comfort after a hip replacement is difficult as it is; finding it in bed is even more difficult. Troubles sleeping are a common side effect of this surgery and while the effects are only temporary, they can leave you feeling exhausted and frustrated throughout the healing process. The good news is that there are many helpful tips for sleeping after hip replacement surgery and here at Snoozle, we have the inside scoop.
Sleep on a Firm Mattress
Swapping out your big, comfy, squishy mattress for a firmer one can be particularly helpful after hip replacement surgery as the firmness will provide your back with more support. This helps to eliminate the pressure that’s placed on the hips when in a laying down position.
Alternatively, many health care professionals recommend forgoing coil and spring beds as they offer little relief and opting for a memory foam mattress instead. However, you'll have to be choosy when selecting a memory foam mattress as many are super soft which make it difficult to move on after surgery.
Use a Slide Sheet 
Sleeping on a firm mattress can help with many hurdles that come with sleeping after hip replacement surgery but moving on the mattress can still be difficult. Use a slide sheet for easier maneuvering of yourself, whether it’s turning over or simply repositioning yourself to find maximum comfort. Slide sheets go right on top of your regular sheet and are designed with one slippery side and one cozy side to enhance movability while in bed. They’re so effective that many healthcare professionals and establishments use side sheets to move or transfer patients. With our Snoozle side sheet, you can achieve the same benefits in the comfort of your own home.
Sleep Positions for Hip Replacement Recovery
Now that you know that you can easily move in bed with a slide sheet even after hip replacement, it’s time to learn the best sleep positions for hip replacement recovery.
It’s recommended that you do not sleep on your stomach or pillows under your knees as these sleep positions place too much pressure on your hips. Instead, sleep on your back or non-operative side with a pillow (or two) in between your knees. With our slide sheet, you can easily move from your side to your back when you feel the need to switch up your positioning. 
Try Some Natural Sleep Remedies
If you’re having difficulty falling asleep after hip replacement surgery, consider trying some natural sleep remedies. Lavender is a common essential oil used as a sleep aid; you can use it as a pillow spray or diffuse it in an essential oil diffuser. Another option is to take ashwagandha supplements which help quiet the mind and melatonin to help put you into a deep sleep. All of these options are 100% natural and can be an effective way to get through any discomfort that may be keeping you awake or waking you up throughout the night.
The most important thing you can do when learning how to sleep after hip replacement surgery is to get a slide sheet for home. It’ll help you well throughout the healing process and once you’re able to sit up, the slide sheet can be used on chairs and other surfaces as well. So, head on over to Snoozle and get your very own slide sheets for home.