How does the day feel right now?
The hours at home can feel long when you are recovering from surgery. You may find yourself moving slowly and feeling tired more often than usual. Simple tasks like getting out of bed or sitting in a chair require extra thought and care. Your body is using energy to heal, which leaves less for other activities.
Your care team's guidance comes first. They know the details of your procedure and your specific needs. The information here offers general ideas for comfort. It is meant to support the plan your doctors and therapists have created for you.
Why do these positions cause fatigue?
What happens when you stay in one spot?
Staying in the same position for too long can lead to stiffness and discomfort. It is helpful to change your position at least every 2 hours while in bed. You can shift from your back to your side, alternating sides each time. This helps relieve pressure on your skin and muscles. It also prevents your joints from feeling stiff.
After back surgery, sitting for long periods can be particularly tiring. You should limit sitting to 10–15 minutes at a time, or as directed by your physiotherapist. Standing up and changing positions when you begin to feel pain is important. Listening to your body helps you avoid overdoing it.
How do movement and support affect comfort?
Moving safely is key to reducing strain on your healing body. Avoid movements that use abdominal muscles, such as sitting straight up from a lying position. Instead, roll onto your side first. Keep your shoulders and hips in a straight line to avoid twisting the abdomen or back. Bend your knees and let your legs hang over the edge of the bed before using your arms to push up to a sitting position. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia provides detailed instructions on this method.
When you are sitting, the angle of your backrest matters. A chair with a straight backrest and arm supports is often more comfortable. A higher seat makes it easier to stand up without straining. You may place a small towel or pillow behind your lower back for support. Do not lift, pull, or push anything that weighs more than 10 pounds for 4 to 8 weeks after abdominal surgery. UW Medicine Patient Education offers more details on daily activities.
What helps you rest a little more comfortably?
How can you adjust your space?
Small changes in your environment can make resting easier. Try to get up and move at least one time each hour during the day. Include times to rest when planning your daily activities. Sit at the side of the bed for a few seconds before standing up. Wait a moment after standing to ensure you are not dizzy before walking. Veterans Affairs suggests this pause to help with balance.
Using supportive aids can help your body feel more settled. The FIRMFLEX LevelUp Cushion is designed to offer steady support during rest. You can place it on your lap with both arms resting on it to reduce shoulder tension. The LC-150 model works well for bed and couch use. For armchairs, recliners, and wheelchairs, the LC-CHAIR provides a stable base. The LC-WIDE option is available for larger builds. All models come with a washable cover with a water-resistant top.
Here is a comparison of common rest aids to help you choose what might work for you.
| Rest Aid | Best Used For | Comfort Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Lap Blanket | Warmth and light weight | Soft pressure on legs |
| Backrest Wedge | Bed or sofa sitting | Supports lower back angle |
| Arm-Support Cushion | Chair or wheelchair | Reduces shoulder strain |
| Tablet Stand | Reading or viewing | Keeps screen at eye level |
These tools are meant to help you find a position that feels good. There is no single right way to sit. It is about finding what reduces fatigue for you.
- Set a timer to remind you to change positions every 2 hours.
- Place a small pillow behind your lower back when sitting in a chair.
- Practice rolling to your side before getting out of bed to avoid twisting.
This article summarizes publicly available information and is not medical advice. Decisions about treatment belong with you and your care team. Sources checked: 2026-10-31
For a more comfortable rest
The longer the days at home, the more a few small supports change how they feel.
- FIRMFLEX LevelUp Cushion (LC-150) — rests on your lap and carries the weight of both arms, so reading, scrolling or watching TV in bed or on the couch is less tiring on the shoulders. LC-150 for bed and couch, LC-CHAIR for armchairs, recliners and wheelchairs, LC-WIDE for larger builds. Washable cover with a wipe-clean, water-resistant top.
- A light lap blanket — for the afternoon hours when body temperature drops.
- A book or tablet stand — brings the screen up to eye level and shortens the time spent looking down.