PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Health
Coping with Illness
Recovery from Illness
Recovery from Surgery
How to Sleep After a Cervical Neck Surgery Download Article Medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
Getting in and Out of Bed
|
Selecting a Good Sleep Position
|
Having a Good Night’s Sleep
|
Video
|Show more|Show less X
This article was medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS. Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 111,861 times.
Sleeping after you have had cervical neck surgery can be a challenge, as you will need to avoid putting strain on your neck, shoulders, or back. Sleep is a top priority post-surgery, as it allows your body to heal. Getting a good night’s rest after cervical neck surgery means picking a sleep position that is comfortable and safe. You should also use pillows and extra support when you sleep, and get in and out of bed correctly to minimize your pain and discomfort as you recover from surgery.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 3:
Getting in and Out of Bed
Download Article
1 Sit on the edge of the bed. Getting in bed must be done carefully, as you do not want to put your neck at risk of injury. Start by sitting down on the edge of the bed, about halfway down the bed. Put your feet firmly on the ground and keep your neck and back straight.
2 Lower yourself on your side, resting on your elbow. Slowly bend to one side and rest your weight on your elbow. Try to keep weight on your hips and feet as well so you are well supported. Advertisement
3 Roll over to your back or side. Carefully lift your feet up onto the bed as you roll over to your back or to one side, using your elbow to support you. Try to keep your neck and spine straight as you roll so you do not twist these areas.
4 Roll to one side to get out of bed. To get out of bed, tuck your arms at your sides and roll over to one side so you are at the edge of the bed. Then, prop yourself up on your elbow and place your feet on the ground as you slowly lift yourself up to sitting. Try to keep your neck and spine straight as you rise up. Put weight on your legs, rather than your hips or back, to get out of bed.
You may need someone to help you get in and out of bed, especially during the first few weeks of your recovery. Ask a friend, family member, partner, or caretaker to help you, as needed.
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 3:
Selecting a Good Sleep Position
Download Article
1 Follow instructions if your doctor recommends a collar or brace. Your surgeon may have ordered you to wear a neck collar or brace. Follow the surgeon's guidelines for when to wear it. Some people may find it more comfortable to sleep or nap in a recliner, especially when the collar or brace is on.[1]XResearch source
2 Sleep on your back to protect your neck and spine. The best sleeping position post-surgery is on your back. Keep your head, neck, and hips aligned as you lie on your back so your body is well supported.[2]XResearch source
Some people find it more comfortable to bend their legs and place their feet flat on the bed when they are lying on their back.
3 Try sleeping on your side if you find it hard to lie on your back. Another option is to sleep on one side. Bend your legs when you sleep on your side for added comfort.
Do not sleep on your stomach, as this can strain your neck.
A sleep position on your back or side is a safer option.[3]XResearch source
4 Place a pillow under your head for support. Make sure the pillow is not too flat or high, as you do not want your neck to sink below your shoulders or be at an angle up from your shoulders. Check that the pillow keeps your neck in line with your spine, rather than twisted to one side.[4]XResearch source
A pillow made out of foam can give your head and neck more support as you recover.
5 Use a pillow between or under your legs for added comfort. If you are sleeping on your back, slide a pillow or a rolled up towel under your legs to better support your back. If you are sleeping on your side, you can put a pillow between your legs to support your back and chest.[5]XResearch source
If you tend to put your arms under your head or one knee up when you sleep on your side, place a pillow behind your back and hips to prevent rolling out of a side sleeping position.
6 Keep your arms below your head and neck. Make sure your arms lay on either side of you or curled below your head and neck. This will ensure your neck and shoulders are not strained while you sleep.
You may find placing a heavy blanket over your body when you sleep can help to keep your arms from shifting or moving in the night.
Advertisement Part 3 Part 3 of 3:
Having a Good Night’s Sleep
Download Article
1 Create a cool, quiet sleep environment. Your bedroom should be comfortable and quiet so you can get a good night’s sleep. Make sure it is not too warm or bright, as a cooler, darker environment is usually best for sleeping.
2 Have extra pillows and blankets within arm’s reach. If you tend to get cold during the night or like having extra pillows on hand, make sure they are easy for you to reach as needed. By the side of your bed or on a chair next to your bed is usually a good spot, as you will not need to move too much to reach them.
3 Log roll to change sleep positions, as needed. If you want to switch from sleeping on your back to sleeping on your side, make sure you roll to change positions, supporting yourself on one elbow. Try to keep your neck, shoulders, and back straight as you roll so you do not strain these areas.
4 Take over-the-counter pain medication, if needed. Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help you manage any pain or soreness due to your neck surgery. Follow the instructions on the label and never take more than directed.
If your pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain medication. Follow their instructions on dosage and do not take more than recommended.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
How toSleep with Neck PainHow toSleep After a Knee ReplacementHow toSleep After a C SectionHow toSleep After Shoulder SurgeryHow toImprove Posture While SleepingHow toSleep With Lower Back PainHow to Sleep with Pinched Nerves in Your Shoulder Blade, Arm, Neck & MoreHow toSleep with a Ruptured DiscThe Proper Way to Sleep with a Neck PillowHow to Side Sleep (without Neck Pain)How to Sleep on a Couch: Expert Tips for a Restful NightHow toSleep with Rotator Cuff PainHow toSleep with ScoliosisHow toDo a Log Roll Advertisement
Medically reviewed by: Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS Registered Nurse This article was medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS. Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013. This article has been viewed 111,861 times. 73 votes - 92% Co-authors: 9Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 111,861 Categories: Recovery from Surgery
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
Read More...
Article SummaryX
Sleeping after your cervical neck surgery can present a few challenges, but fortunately, with the right posture and careful movement, you can still enjoy a good night’s sleep. To get into bed, sit on the edge of the bed, lean slowly onto your side, then roll onto your back. To get out of bed, just do the reverse. It’s best to sleep on your back, since this puts the least strain on your neck and back, but you can also sleep on your side if you can’t get comfortable on your back. Use a firm pillow to keep your neck aligned with your body. You can also place another pillow between your legs to help support your back and chest. If you’re in a lot of pain, take a painkiller before bed as well. For more advice from our Medical co-author, including how to set up the perfect sleeping environment, read on.Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Spanish German French
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 111,861 times.
Reader Success Stories
Fan Tan
Mar 13, 2022
"The word surgery is scary enough to me. However, I found this site has many positive pre- and post-cervical spine surgery tips. Thank you for addressing the little things as well as the major points of cervical surgery for recovering a safe healthy way."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Medically reviewed by: Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS Registered Nurse Co-authors: 9Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 111,86192% of readers found this article helpful. 73 votes - 92% Click a star to add your vote
Fan Tan
Mar 13, 2022
"The word surgery is scary enough to me. However, I found this site has many positive pre- and post-cervical spine surgery tips. Thank you for addressing the little things as well as the major points of cervical surgery for recovering a safe healthy way."..." more
Mark Snyder
May 30, 2019
"It is so nice to find a article that brings a lot of relief and is easy to follow." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
Quizzes & Games
Why Can't I Sleep QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Mattress Should I Buy QuizTake QuizWhat Does Your Sleeping Position Say About You?Analyze MeAre You a Big Spoon or a Little Spoon QuizTake QuizWhat Time Should I Go to Bed QuizTake QuizBedroom Aesthetic QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toSleep with Neck PainHow toSleep After a Knee ReplacementHow toSleep After a C SectionHow toSleep After Shoulder Surgery
Featured Articles
What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)
Trending Articles
How Many People Had a Crush on You In 2025?What Song Was #1 On My Birthday?Who Is Secretly Crushing On Me Right Now QuizDiscover the Secret Meaning of Your First NameAnswer These Questions, And We'll Judge You10+ Scary Phone Numbers to Call
Featured Articles
What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithWhat Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?
Featured Articles
How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test
Watch Articles
How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean)How to Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysHow toThicken Sauce with FlourHow to Brighten Up White Shirts and Other GarmentsHow to Cook White Rice without a Rice CookerHow to Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)
Trending Articles
How Vanilla Am I QuizAttractiveness Score QuizHow toKissWhat Are My Soulmate's Initials QuizHow toLose Belly Fat in 2 WeeksWho's My KPop Lookalike Quiz
Quizzes & Games
How to Choose Bed Sheets QuizTake QuizWhy Am I So Tired QuizTake QuizYoga Pose RecommenderGenerateHow Tall Will I Be QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Health
Coping with Illness
Recovery from Illness
Recovery from Surgery
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS 
Advertisement 
Medically reviewed by: Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS Registered Nurse This article was medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS. Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013. This article has been viewed 111,861 times. 73 votes - 92% Co-authors: 9 Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 111,861 Categories: Recovery from Surgery 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Analyze Me
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Generate
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
675 
1 Sit on the edge of the bed. Getting in bed must be done carefully, as you do not want to put your neck at risk of injury. Start by sitting down on the edge of the bed, about halfway down the bed. Put your feet firmly on the ground and keep your neck and back straight. 
2 Lower yourself on your side, resting on your elbow. Slowly bend to one side and rest your weight on your elbow. Try to keep weight on your hips and feet as well so you are well supported. Advertisement 
3 Roll over to your back or side. Carefully lift your feet up onto the bed as you roll over to your back or to one side, using your elbow to support you. Try to keep your neck and spine straight as you roll so you do not twist these areas. 
4 Roll to one side to get out of bed. To get out of bed, tuck your arms at your sides and roll over to one side so you are at the edge of the bed. Then, prop yourself up on your elbow and place your feet on the ground as you slowly lift yourself up to sitting. Try to keep your neck and spine straight as you rise up. Put weight on your legs, rather than your hips or back, to get out of bed. 
1 Follow instructions if your doctor recommends a collar or brace. Your surgeon may have ordered you to wear a neck collar or brace. Follow the surgeon's guidelines for when to wear it. Some people may find it more comfortable to sleep or nap in a recliner, especially when the collar or brace is on.[1] 
2 Sleep on your back to protect your neck and spine. The best sleeping position post-surgery is on your back. Keep your head, neck, and hips aligned as you lie on your back so your body is well supported.[2] 
3 Try sleeping on your side if you find it hard to lie on your back. Another option is to sleep on one side. Bend your legs when you sleep on your side for added comfort. 
4 Place a pillow under your head for support. Make sure the pillow is not too flat or high, as you do not want your neck to sink below your shoulders or be at an angle up from your shoulders. Check that the pillow keeps your neck in line with your spine, rather than twisted to one side.[4] 
5 Use a pillow between or under your legs for added comfort. If you are sleeping on your back, slide a pillow or a rolled up towel under your legs to better support your back. If you are sleeping on your side, you can put a pillow between your legs to support your back and chest.[5] 
6 Keep your arms below your head and neck. Make sure your arms lay on either side of you or curled below your head and neck. This will ensure your neck and shoulders are not strained while you sleep. 
1 Create a cool, quiet sleep environment. Your bedroom should be comfortable and quiet so you can get a good night’s sleep. Make sure it is not too warm or bright, as a cooler, darker environment is usually best for sleeping. 
2 Have extra pillows and blankets within arm’s reach. If you tend to get cold during the night or like having extra pillows on hand, make sure they are easy for you to reach as needed. By the side of your bed or on a chair next to your bed is usually a good spot, as you will not need to move too much to reach them. 
3 Log roll to change sleep positions, as needed. If you want to switch from sleeping on your back to sleeping on your side, make sure you roll to change positions, supporting yourself on one elbow. Try to keep your neck, shoulders, and back straight as you roll so you do not strain these areas. 
4 Take over-the-counter pain medication, if needed. Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help you manage any pain or soreness due to your neck surgery. Follow the instructions on the label and never take more than directed. 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.