sleeping after spinal cord injury (SCI)

Another 10 Tips for Sleeping After a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) – Updated: Originally published August 2018 · Updated October 25 2025 for accuracy and new techniques.

Introduction to Another 10 Tips for Sleeping After a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Sleeping well after a spinal cord injury can be a nightly challenge. In this second part of my SCI Sleeping Tips series, I share another 10 strategies that make bedtime safer, warmer, and more comfortable — from wheelchair transfers and skin protection to keeping my cat off the bed. These are real routines that help me manage pain, stay independent, and get the rest I need.

Tip #10 – How to Transfer Safely from Wheelchair to Bed

Safety first. I move my chair close to the bed and adjust the height so it’s just higher than my seat. Using a slide board, I lift across in a few small moves rather than sliding, to protect my skin. Once I’m on the bed, I lift each leg using my pants or socks, then pull up the safety rail.

A man wearing a black tracksuit with the word “POWER” on the chest sits beside a hospital-style adjustable bed. He holds a hand control used to raise or lower the bed. The room has teal walls and a framed sports poster on the wall. sleeping after spinal cord injury The same man leans forward from his wheelchair, placing a smooth wooden transfer board between the wheelchair and the bed. The board will help him slide safely across. The man, still in his tracksuit, sits at the edge of the bed, stretching his leg across and using his hand to pull it closer while balancing on the transfer board. sleeping after spinal cord injury The man adjusts his body further onto the bed, one hand gripping the rail and the other resting on the mattress to steady himself. Both legs are now on the bed.

Tip #11 – Undressing and Preparing for Sleeping after Spinal Cord Injury

I start with shoes and socks, then roll from side to side to remove my pants and underwear to reduce skin issues. A towel over my legs keeps me warm and covered. Losing a few kilos makes this part easier as my abdomen gets in the way!

Tip #12 – Keeping Warm When Sleeping after Spinal Cord Injury

Cold nights used to mean hand pain. Doctors blamed arthritis, making sleeping after a spinal cord injury more difficult — but the real fix was keeping my feet warm. Now I wear long socks and slippers. Warm feet = happy hands.

Tip #13 – Protecting Skin and Preventing Pressure Sores

I place pillows under my knees and around my feet so they stay supported and face upward. This puts less stress on the knees. Smooth sheets — no wrinkles — are essential for healthy skin. A sheet and doona are placed over me, and an overbed table is set up. It contains vital items such as water, prescription drugs and my TV remote control.

The man, now wearing a dark checkered shirt and striped socks with fluffy animal slippers, leans forward on the bed, adjusting the position of his feet and slippers. sleeping after spinal cord injury The man lies flat on the bed with a white towel over his legs and several large pillows or supports placed under his knees to keep them elevated. He wears the same striped socks and animal slippers, appearing comfortable and ready to rest. sleeping after spinal cord injury The same man lies in bed with red cylindrical cushions placed around his feet to keep them supported and separated. He still wears the striped socks and soft white animal-paw slippers. He looks down at his legs to check their position. sleeping after spinal cord injury The man reclines in bed with his head propped up on a large orange pillow. A white tray table rests across his lap, holding a large red drink container, a phone, and other items. He is holding a tablet, appearing relaxed and ready to rest or read before sleep. sleeping after spinal cord injury

Tip #14 – Setting Up Your Shower Chair for Morning Transfers

Each night, I position my shower chair beside the bed and keep my shoes nearby. They protect my feet from the rigid plastic footrests and make the routine go more smoothly.

Tip #15 – Managing Night-Time Bladder Care with a Catheter

My suprapubic catheter connects to a leg bag via a hole below my navel, which in turn connects to a 4-litre bottle washed in bleach before use to kill bacteria. On hot nights or after exercise, I can easily fill the bottle by morning — staying hydrated and independent.

Tip #16 – Staying Productive and Entertained in Bed

Chronic pain keeps me in bed for up to half a day. A Surround Sound system and a 70″ TV keep me entertained. A MacBook Air allows me to read emails, write my memoir and take care of other business. Sleeping after spinal cord injury is easier when you are entertained and keeping on top of tasks.

Tip #17 – Finding Comfort and Reducing Pain While Sleeping after Spinal Cord Injury

Before lights out, I work on my left golfer’s elbow with exercises, rub on Voltaren, and use a compression sleeve. A small pillow under my lower back eases pressure, and my CPAP mask helps with sleep apnea. A pickup stick nearby rescues anything I drop. I check that my water is within reach and my leg bag is draining. I don’t want to get autonomic dysreflexia.

Tip #18 – Handling Emergencies While Alone in Bed

I keep an emergency plan, utilising a few communication devices

Mobile phone: for urgent issues, call emergency services. For critical issues that can’t wait until the next day, call a family member.
Pendant: for urgent issues, and I can’t use my mobile phone
Handheld horn: gets the attention of others in the home – use sparingly
Apple Watch alerts: sends emergency SMS to 4 contacts

So far, I’ve handled every hiccup myself — safely.

Tip #19 – Improving Circulation with a Vibrating Cushion

Some mornings, I place a vibrating cushion under my legs to boost circulation and reduce swelling. Simple, effective, and surprisingly relaxing.

Final Thoughts about Sleeping After a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Rest is vital after a spinal cord injury. These routines try to keep me safe, comfortable, and positive each night.
If you’ve found your own tricks for better sleep, share them below — your tip might help someone else rest easier.

Disclaimer: This is my personal experience sleeping with a spinal cord injury. It’s not medical advice. For emergencies or specific guidance, consult medical professionals. References I found helpful: talk to your sleep professional, and reputable health organisations’ materials on sleeping with a spinal cord injury.

1 thought on “Another 10 Tips for Sleeping After a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)”

Michelle Casserley says:

August 6, 2018 at 9:54 pm

Cool, thanks for sharing John x