Management

Hip Safety: Sleeping Positions

Choose a preferred language


Your new hip needs extra care while it heals. Follow your “hip precautions” to help you keep from injuring it. Use the tips on this sheet to help keep your new hip safe while sleeping. Be sure to follow any guidelines from your healthcare provider.


Remember your hip precautions

  • Keep the angle at your hip greater than 90°. (Don’t move your knees and chest too far toward each other.)

  • Don't cross your legs or ankles or let your operated thigh cross the middle of your body.

  • Don't turn your operated hip or knee inward.


Safe sleeping

  • Find a position that keeps your hip safe and comfortable.

  • Use pillows between your legs to keep your hip in a safe position.

  • Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about which side to sleep on.

Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Date Last Reviewed: 09/01/2025

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

1-800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

1-800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

1-800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Sling and Swathe

Sling and swathe is used to support your arm and hold it closely against your body after an injury.

Read article
Orthopedics
Boost Your Back Flexibility With the Cat-Cow

Try the cat-cow exercise to strengthen your belly muscles and improve spinal flexibility.

Read article
Orthopedics
Quadriceps, Short Arcs (Strength)

This exercise builds strength in your quads.

Read article
Orthopedics
Ankle Inversion (Strength)

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this exercise.