How to Sleep After Labrum Surgery

The labrum is cartilage in the shoulder that helps to keep the shoulder in the socket and support the muscles through the movements the shoulder goes through. If you have a severe tear to the labrum, you may have completely severed it from the bone and may require surgery to repair the area. When you are recovering from labrum surgery, you will need to keep your shoulder immobilized and sleep in a position that doesn't place a strain on the joint.

Things You'll Need

  • Pillows
  • Shoulder sling
  • Pain medications
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your pain medication as prescribed by your doctor. This will reduce discomfort while sleeping.

    • 2

      Place the sling around your arm to immobilize it and prevent inadvertent movements while you are sleeping that can harm the recovery process.

    • 3

      Sleep on your back. Don't sleep on your side where your shoulder will be placed in a strained position. Use one or two pillows under your arm to keep it in a comfortable position and reduce stress on your arm. This will also help prevent you from rolling in your sleep and onto the shoulder inadvertently.

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