ACL reconstruction is one of the most commonly performed knee ligament surgeries, with more than 133,000 procedures carried out in England over 20 years (Abram et al., 2019).
That said, getting a good night's sleep after ACL surgery isn't easy. Pain and swelling, along with reduced mobility, can make it difficult to find a comfortable position to rest and recover.
Knowing how to sleep after ACL surgery and supporting your knee correctly can help you rest more comfortably while your body recovers.
The Best Sleeping Position After ACL Surgery
For most people, back sleeping is the best sleeping position after ACL surgery, particularly during the early stages of recovery.
Why? Well, this position helps keep the operated leg supported and reduces unnecessary movement while you sleep.
Many surgeons recommend elevating the leg to help reduce swelling and improve comfort, although it's important to follow your own post-operative instructions as recommendations can vary. If you've been advised to wear a knee brace overnight, keep it on until your healthcare team tells you otherwise.
Sleep aids can help you maintain your posture. The Groove Combination Pillow can gently support the operated leg while you rest on your back. By helping to elevate and support the leg, it can make sleeping after ACL reconstruction more comfortable while encouraging a safe sleeping position.
When Can You Sleep on Your Side After ACL Surgery?
Research has shown that over half of adults prefer side sleeping, so it’s no surprise that many ask about it after ACL surgery (Moro, 2026).
However, when it's safe to do so depends on your surgeon's advice, your stage of recovery and whether your knee is healing as expected.
Once side sleeping has been approved, the right support can make a big difference. Placing a pillow between your knees helps keep your hips aligned while reducing pressure on the operated leg. It also helps minimise unwanted twisting through the knee as you sleep.
Again, the Groove Combination Pillow is ideal for supporting your knees in this position thanks to its adjustable strap, helping you maintain a more comfortable posture throughout the night.
For even greater stability, the Groove Body Pillow provides full-body support from your upper body to your legs. Hugging a body pillow can help prevent twisting through the hips and knees, making it easier to stay in a side sleeping position without putting unnecessary strain on your recovering knee.
Common Sleeping Mistakes After ACL Surgery
As your knee heals, certain sleeping habits can increase discomfort or place unnecessary stress on the joint.
Plus, quality sleep plays an important role in recovery after surgery. Research has shown that poor postoperative sleep quality and shorter sleep duration are associated with impaired wound healing (Das et al., 2024).
Try to avoid:
- Sleeping with the operated leg unsupported
- Twisting the knee while turning over
- Removing your brace if you've been instructed to wear it overnight
- Sleeping in a position that increases pain or discomfort
- Ignoring the advice given by your surgeon or physiotherapist
Small adjustments to your ACL surgery sleeping position can often make a noticeable difference to your comfort during recovery.
Recovery after ACL surgery takes time. According to the NHS, it can take several months to recover, with a return to sport often taking up to a year (NHS website, 2025). So, consistency is also key. Keep up with these small changes, and you’ll see more of a difference than if you only try them every other night.
Tips for Sleeping More Comfortably During Recovery
Recovering from ACL surgery takes time, so it's important to create a sleep setup that supports both your body and your healing knee.
You may find it helpful to:
- Keep supportive pillows nearby so you can adjust your position if needed
- Follow your prescribed pain management plan, particularly before bedtime
- Ice your painful knee before bed if recommended by your healthcare team
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine by keeping your bedroom cool, dark and quiet
- Be patient with yourself, as sleep often becomes easier as swelling reduces and your knee becomes more comfortable
- Everyone's recovery is different, so listen to your body when sleeping after ACL reconstruction and continue following the guidance provided by your surgeon or physiotherapist throughout your rehabilitation.
If you notice any new symptoms or the pain worsens, contact your medical provider for professional advice.
Final Thoughts
Frustratingly, recovering from ACL surgery takes time, but making a few simple changes to your sleep setup may help improve comfort and support your knee throughout the night. Go slow and be consistent for the best results!
Consider adding extra support. Explore the Groove Combination Pillow and Groove Body Pillow to create a more supportive sleeping environment while you recover.
References
- Abram, S.G.F., Price, A.J., Judge, A. and Beard, D.J. (2019). Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and meniscal repair rates have both increased in the past 20 years in England: hospital statistics from 1997 to 2017. British Journal of Sports Medicine, [online] 54(5), pp.286–291. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2018-100195.
- Das, A., Gupta, R., Huda, F., Kumar, N., Krishnan, V. and Basu, S. (2024). Effect of sleep quality on wound healing among patients undergoing emergency laparotomy: an observational study. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. doi:10.5664/jcsm.11442.
- Moro, C. (2022). Do You Sleep on Your Back or Side? Here’s The Research on “Optimal” Sleep Positions. [online] ScienceAlert. Available at: https://www.sciencealert.com/do-you-sleep-on-your-back-or-side-heres-the-research-on-optimal-sleep-positions [Accessed 7 Aug. 2026].
- NHS website (2025). Recovering from ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery. [online] nhs.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/acl-anterior-cruciate-ligament-surgery/recovering/ [Accessed 7 Aug. 2026].
