| Document And Entity Information | Aug. 04, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 04, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | SUPERIOR ENERGY SERVICES INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000886835 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 001-34037 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-2379388 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1001 Louisiana Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77002 |
| City Area Code | 713 |
| Local Phone Number | 654-2200 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | None |
| No Trading Symbol Flag | true |
| Security Exchange Name | NONE |
