Hernia surgery requires a recovery period to repair the abdominal wall defect. The immediate post-operative phase involves managing pain and protecting the surgical site from undue pressure or strain. Since movements like sitting up rely heavily on abdominal muscles, careful movement is important for proper healing. Specialized techniques for getting into and out of bed minimize pressure, preventing complications and promoting recovery. The goal is to keep the torso stable and rigid, transferring the work from core muscles to the stronger muscles of the arms and legs.
Preparing the Bed and Yourself
Before attempting to get into bed, ensure your prescribed pain medication has taken effect. Moving when pain is well-controlled will reduce muscle guarding and involuntary straining on the incision. Gather all necessary items, such as your phone, remote control, and a bottle of water, placing them within easy arm’s reach of the bed.
If you have an adjustable bed, raising the head section slightly can reduce the effort needed to transition from sitting to lying down. Place a firm pillow near the edge of the bed to brace the incision during movement and for later splinting. These preparatory steps create a controlled environment, reducing the need for sudden movements or reaching once the process begins.
Step-by-Step Log Rolling Technique
The “log rolling” technique moves the body as a single, rigid unit, effectively bypassing the use of abdominal muscles. Stand with the backs of your legs touching the edge of the bed where your hips will rest. Use your arm strength to gently lower yourself onto the mattress edge, sitting up straight with both feet on the floor.
Position yourself close to the edge, facing the direction you intend to lie down. Place the prepared pillow firmly against your abdomen, holding it with one arm to brace the surgical site. Lean onto the elbow of the arm opposite the side you are rolling toward, using that arm to bear your upper body weight.
Use your arm strength to lower your torso onto the bed. Simultaneously, lift your legs together, swinging them onto the mattress while keeping your knees bent. This motion should be performed as one fluid, coordinated action, like a log rolling sideways, to avoid twisting the trunk. Land on your side, maintaining the straight alignment of your head, shoulders, and hips.
From the side-lying position, use your arms and legs to push or pull yourself into the center of the bed if needed. To turn onto your back, keep your knees bent and roll slowly, still maintaining the rigid, log-like posture of your torso. To get out of bed, reverse the steps: roll onto your side, drop your legs off the edge, and push up to a sitting position using your upper body strength.
Essential Movement Precautions
Once situated in bed, maintain a careful approach to all movements to protect the healing tissue. Avoid actions that involve twisting your body at the waist, as this places a shearing force across the abdominal repair. Refrain from sudden movements, which can cause an involuntary, painful contraction of the core muscles.
Splinting the incision with a pillow must be employed before any activity that increases intra-abdominal pressure. When you anticipate coughing, sneezing, or laughing, hug the pillow tightly against your abdomen for external support. This bracing action helps absorb the internal force, minimizing strain on the repair.
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 to 15 pounds for the first few weeks, as determined by your surgeon. Listen to your body and stop any activity that causes a pulling sensation or sharp pain in the surgical area. Contact your physician immediately if you experience a fever above 101°F, excessive redness or drainage from the incision, or severe, sudden pain.