How to sleep and sit after Spine surgery? Getting enough continuous, uninterrupted sleep helps the body to heal faster. Minimizing low back strain through better body positioning can improve rest. It is generally OK after back surgery to sleep in whatever position is most comfortable. Some prefer to sleep on one side or the other with a pillow between their knees and/or behind them to support the back. Here is another position that takes stress off the low back: Lay face up on the bed, Elevate the upper back/shoulder/head - this is easy to do with an adjustable bed, but can also be readily achieved on a regular mattress by using supportive pillows. Place a pillow or rolled up blanket under the back of the knees, so the hips and knees are slightly bent.