Sideposisjon

Sideposisjon, or lateral position, is a body posture in which a person lies on one side. In this position, most of the body’s weight rests on one hip and the corresponding shoulder, while the spine remains in a neutral alignment. The head is typically supported by a pillow, and additional padding may be placed under the waist, between the knees, or behind the back to improve comfort and reduce pressure.

Variants include the left lateral position and the right lateral position. A specific form used in clinical settings is Sims’ position, a left-side posture with the lower arm positioned behind the body and the upper leg flexed, which facilitates certain examinations and procedures.

Medical uses: Sideposisjon is commonly employed to facilitate physical examination, imaging, and access during certain surgeries. It can aid drainage of secretions, improve airway management in some cases, and influence organ exposure in procedures involving the abdomen or chest. The position is also used in some sleep studies and therapeutic contexts.

Safety and comfort: Proper padding and alignment are important to prevent nerve compression, shoulder or hip pain, and other injuries. Regularly changing sides can reduce the risk of pressure injuries for individuals with limited mobility.

In daily life, sideposisjon is a common sleeping posture. Many people find it comfortable and may choose left-sided sleep for reasons related to circulation or digestion, though individual comfort and medical guidance vary.