Dismiss Modal

Management

Back Safety: Getting Into and Out of Bed

Choose a preferred language

Good posture protects your back when you sit, stand, and walk. It is also important while getting into and out of bed. Follow the steps below to get out of bed. Reverse them to get into bed.


Safety tip

Sit at the side of the bed for a few seconds before standing up. Then, after you stand up, wait a moment before walking to be sure you’re not dizzy.


1. Roll onto your side

  • Keep your knees together.

  • Tighten your stomach muscles to keep your back from arching.

  • Put your hands on the bed in front of you.


2. Raise your body

  • Push your upper body off the bed as you swing your legs to the floor.

  • Keeping your back straight, move your whole body as one unit. Don’t bend or twist at the waist.

  • Let the weight of your legs help you move.

Woman pushing her upper body off the bed.


3. Stand up

  • Lean forward from your hip and roll onto the balls of your feet.

  • Tighten your stomach muscles to keep your back from arching.

  • Using your arm and leg muscles, push yourself to a standing position.

Woman leaning forward on edge of bed and pushing herself up with hands braced on legs.

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read more →
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Sleeping Positions

When you sleep, keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in line.

Read more →
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Sitting

Sitting can strain your back if you don't do it right. Learn the right moves to protect your back.

Read more →
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Standing

Good posture decreases back pain by reducing strain on your muscle.

Read more →
Orthopedics
How to Get Out of Bed with Back Pain

Follow the steps in this video when you need to get out of bed if you have back pain.