It can be difficult to get quality sleep after ACL surgery, particularly when you are recovering from the procedure. Patients often report difficulty sleeping because of pain and discomfort. This blog addresses common questions, including how to rest after ACL or meniscus surgery and whether you should sleep on your left side. It also includes helpful pain-relieving exercises.

We at the Cruciates are experts in ACL surgery and ensure a quick recovery for all our patients. How to improve your quality of sleep and manage recovery after surgery.

What You Should Know About Sleep Problems After ACL Surgery

Patients often complain of swelling, pain, and discomfort after ACL surgery. This can interfere with sleeping. In a state of vulnerability, the knee may also be sensitive. The use of compression bands or braces can also make it hard to find the right position.

Insufficient sleep also affects recovery as the body needs rest in order to recover. During this period, it’s important to concentrate on proper sleep techniques and pain management to improve recovery.

What to do after ACL and Meniscus surgery?

After ACL or meniscus surgery, it is important to find the right balance between protection and comfort. These tips will help you sleep better:

1. Lay on Your Back : The safest sleeping position is on your back after ACL surgery. Placing pillows beneath your knee will keep it elevated and reduce swelling. This also promotes blood circulation.
2. Pillows provide extra support and comfort. Use them to stop unnecessary movements during sleep. Place the pillow under or between the knees of your leg that has been operated.
3. Do not sleep on your stomach. This can cause knee pain or prolong recovery.
4. Wear your brace while sleeping It is important that you wear the knee brace recommended by your doctor, even when you are asleep. This brace keeps the knee in a stable position and helps reduce the chance of an injury.
5. Applying Ice Before Sleep can reduce pain and swelling, which will make it easier for you to sleep.

Is it safe to sleep on your side after ACL surgery?

After ACL surgery it is possible to sleep on your side, with some modifications. Try these tips if you like to sleep on your side.

1. Pillows Place a cushion between your legs and align your knee. It can reduce the pressure at the surgery site.
2. Do not sleep directly on the operated side. If you have to sleep sideways, do so on the non-operated side.
3. Listen to Your Surgeon: Your surgeon will likely recommend a specific position for sleeping, depending on your personal recovery plan and the extent of your operation.

ACL Exercise Recovery Tips

It is important to do the right exercises following ACL surgery in order to regain strength and mobility. It’s vital to listen to your doctor or physical therapist to prevent overexertion. Exercises that are recommended may include:

1. Quadriceps sets This exercise is simple and will strengthen your quadriceps muscles without straining the knee. Hold the tightened thigh muscle for a couple of seconds and then let go.
2. Heel Sliding: While lying back, gently slide your heels toward your buttocks to increase knee flexibility.
3. Ankle pumps: Keep your knee still and move your foot upwards or downwards. It helps to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
4. Straight Leg Raised: Lift your leg straight up in the air while lying on the floor to strengthen the muscles around the knee.

You’ll be on your way to recovery with regular physical therapy guided by The Cruciates.

ACL Surgery Pain Relief

It is important to manage pain following ACL surgery for your recovery and comfort. These are some methods to relieve pain.

1. Pain Medication Your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory or pain relievers to help you manage your discomfort. To avoid misuse, follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
2. Ice: Applying the ice several times per day to your knee, particularly before going to bed, will help reduce swelling. It can also numb pain.
3. Elevation Keep your leg raised, especially during the first weeks after surgery, to help reduce swelling.
4. Relaxation and Rest: Recovery is dependent on rest, so avoid straining your knee.

We provide the best post-operative pain management, rehabilitation, and recovery care at The Cruates.

The conclusion of the article is:

It’s not just about healing your knee after ACL surgery. You also need to take care of yourself, which includes getting enough sleep and managing any pain. You can improve your recovery by following these suggestions for sleep positions, exercise, and pain management.

You’ll get personalized guidance and care from The Cruciates to make sure that you recover as quickly and easily as possible.

The FAQ

Q1 – How long after an ACL operation will it take me to sleep?

The swelling and pain are the main reasons why most patients have difficulty sleeping in the first few weeks following ACL surgery. Proper sleep techniques will help to minimize pain.

Q2 – Can I sleep on the stomach after an ACL operation?

After ACL surgery it’s not recommended that you sleep on your stomach, because this can put pressure on the knee and slow recovery.

Q3 – When can I begin exercising again after ACL Surgery?

It’s best to listen carefully to your physical therapist. Strengthening exercises are usually started a few days after recovery.

Q4 – How long after an ACL operation should I continue to ice the knee?

Ice your knees for 15 to 20 minutes, several times per day. This is especially important before going to bed. It will reduce pain and swelling.

Q5 – Can I sleep with my brace off after an ACL operation?

You will receive specific instructions from your surgeon regarding how to use a brace. In general, it is best to wear your brace at night in order to prevent your knee from being moved.

 

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