Positioning for people after stroke

Lying on affected side

• One or two pillows for head
• Affected shoulder positioned comfortably
• Place unaffected leg forward on one or two pillows
• Place pillows in front and behind

Lying on affected side

• One or two pillows for head
• Affected shoulder forward with arm supported on pillow
• Place affected leg backwards on one or two pillows
• Place a pillow behind

Lying on back (if desired)

• Place three pillows supporting both shoulders and head
• Place affected arm on pillow
• Optional pillow beneath affected hip
• Ensure feet in neutral position

Sitting in bed

• Sitting in bed is desirable for short periods only
• Sitting upright well supported by pillows
• Place both arms on pillows
• Legs supported for comfort

Sitting up

• Sitting well back in the centre of chair or wheelchair
• Place arms well forward onto two pillows on table
• Feet flat on floor or footrests
• Knees directly above feet