How do I sleep after shoulder surgery?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Sling on, back or good side down, pillows everywhere. NHS physiotherapy advice after shoulder surgery is to wear your sling in bed for the time recommended, avoid lying on the operated shoulder for the first six weeks, and support the arm with pillows: under the upper arm and elbow when on your back, hugged in front when on your non-operated side, and tucked behind your back to stop you rolling. A semi-reclined position in a recliner or propped on pillows often beats a flat bed for the first weeks because the arm cannot dangle and stretch the repair. Time your evening painkillers about 30 minutes before bed. Broken sleep early on is normal and improves as the shoulder settles.
What to do
- Keep the sling on in bed for as long as your team prescribed it.
- Back or non-operated side only for the first six weeks; never the operated shoulder.
- Build the pillow fort: one under the arm, one to hug, one behind your back.
- Try a recliner or propped position if flat lying pulls on the shoulder.
- Time painkillers before bed and tell your team if night pain is stopping sleep entirely.
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