This is the position most likely to encourage
spasticity, but some patients do like to lie on their
back for a while and it will be required for some
treatments. Place two pillows under the patient’s
head and help him bend his head slightly towards
his unaffected shoulder and gently turn his head
towards his stroke side but do not use force.
A small pillow is placed under the buttock of the
stroke side and should extend just to the knee; this
will relax the leg and prevent it turning out at the
hip. A pillow is placed under the stroke arm which is
kept straight at the elbow and, if possible, the palms
of the hand facing upwards. The bed must be the
correct height to promote independence and safety
for the patient, family and healthcare workers