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Log Roll Method for Safe Movement

Table of Contents


Overview

If you've had surgery on your back or belly, an injury to your trunk, or pain in your back, then you know that bending and twisting can cause more pain or injury. You can use the log roll method to get in and out of bed safely.

To get into bed, you first need to sit on the side of the bed. To sit down safely:

Then follow these steps to lie down in bed without bending or twisting. Don't rush as you do the steps.

Figure 1

Sit up straight on the side of the bed.

Keep the center part of your body (your trunk) straight. Think about lowering your body without twisting.

Figure 2

Start to lie on your side.
Use your arms to lower yourself to the bed.

Keep your trunk straight and use your arms to help lower your upper body to the bed. Your arms can support your upper body weight and keep you from twisting. As you lie down, let your legs rise, keeping them in a straight line with your trunk. The idea is to keep your trunk in one stable position as you lower your upper body and raise your legs onto the bed.

Figure 3

Keep your trunk straight after you lie down.
Lie on your side with your back straight.

You may want to put a pillow between your knees to keep your back in a neutral position. If you roll onto your back, you may want to put a pillow under your knees for support.

To get out of bed, do the same steps in reverse:

Tips to make the log roll easier

Here are some tips that may help you use the log roll method for getting in and out of bed.


Credits for Log Roll Method for Safe Movement

Current as of: July 17, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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