sidolägeställning

Sidolägeställning, meaning "side-lying position" in Swedish, is a common posture adopted by individuals for various reasons, including sleeping, resting, or medical positioning. In this position, the body rests on its side, with the torso and limbs extended or slightly flexed. It can be performed on either the left or right side.

When sleeping in a sidolägeställning, individuals may place a pillow between their knees to maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on the hips. This can be particularly beneficial for pregnant women, individuals with lower back pain, or those experiencing hip discomfort. The head is typically supported by a pillow, ensuring the neck remains in a neutral position.

Medically, sidolägeställning can be used to prevent aspiration in unconscious or semi-conscious patients, as it helps to drain secretions from the mouth. It is also employed to relieve pressure on the sacrum and heels, reducing the risk of pressure sores in individuals with limited mobility. In some therapeutic contexts, specific variations of the sidolägeställning might be used to facilitate breathing or improve circulation. The term is primarily used in Scandinavian languages but the concept is universally understood in healthcare and everyday life.