Stroke: Posture Management

Why is good positioning important?

When you have a neurological condition, it can be harder to move and reposition yourself.

If you spend time in a poor position, you might be at risk of problems such as:

  • Pressure sores
  • Chest infections
  • Blood clots
  • Urinary Tract Infections
  • Constipation
  • Reduced range of movement in joints (sometimes known as contractures)
  • Blood pressure problems
  • Swelling
  • Stiffness and joint or muscle related pain
  • Muscle spasticity
  • Choking or coughing when you are eating

Good positioning can help prevent the problems outlined above and promote optimal recovery.

The optimal position for you will depend on the impact of your neurological condition on your movement, sensation and muscle tightness. If you are unable to reposition yourself, your caregiver might need to help you change position every few hours.

For example, after a stroke, you may lack sensation on one side of your body. This can make you feel unsafe when you are lying on this side. Careful positioning of pillows to support you can help to make you feel safer.

Wheelchair Services

If you need specific support, you may be referred to wheelchair services for assessment of your needs.

In Surrey, wheelchairs are provided by Surrey Wheelchair services.

Visit the Surrey Wheelchair Service website or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Bed positioning for RIGHT hemiplegia (right sided weakness)

Illustration of correct bed positioning for right hemiplegia

Lying on unaffected side (facing left)

  • Head and trunk straight
  • Shoulder and pelvic girdle forward
  • Pillow behind back
  • Arm and leg relaxed on pillows

Lying on affected side (facing right)

  • Ease affected shoulder blade forward
  • Arm resting on bed, palm upward
  • Affected leg flexed forward

Lying down (on back)

  • Affected arm supported by pillow

Bed positioning for LEFT hemiplegia (left sided weakness)

Illustration of correct bed positioning for left hemiplegia

Lying on unaffected side (facing right)

  • Shoulder and pelvic girdle forward
  • Head and trunk straight
  • Arm and leg relaxed on pillows
  • Pillow behind back

Lying on affected side (facing left)

  • Ease affected shoulder blade forward
  • Arm resting on bed, palm upward
  • Affected leg flexed forward

Lying down (on back)

  • Affected arm supported by pillow