| Document and Entity Information | Jan. 27, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SUPERIOR ENERGY SERVICES INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000886835 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 27, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-34037 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-2379388 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1001 Louisiana Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2900 |
| 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 |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | SPN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
