You may struggle to sleep after ACL surgery, particularly in the first few weeks. Use pillows to support your leg in a comfortable position and keep it slightly elevated at night to reduce post-surgery swelling. Painkillers and ice packs before bed may help you fall asleep more easily. You may struggle to sleep after ACL surgery, particularly in the first few weeks. Use pillows to support your leg in a comfortable position and keep it slightly elevated at night to reduce post-surgery swelling. Painkillers and ice packs before bed may help you fall asleep more easily.