An arm sling is a medical device designed to provide support and immobilization for an injured arm, wrist, elbow, or shoulder, minimizing movement to allow for proper healing. Its primary function is to hold the arm securely against the body and elevate the hand to help control swelling. Wearing a sling correctly is paramount; an improperly worn sling can fail to support the injury, cause discomfort, and potentially slow recovery or lead to new complications. Achieving the correct fit and positioning directly contributes to the success of the healing period.
Identifying the Correct Sling Type
Slings are not one-size-fits-all, and the type of injury dictates the specific support required. The standard arm sling, made of a simple fabric pouch and neck strap, is typically used for forearm or wrist injuries to provide basic elevation and rest. Shoulder immobilizer slings are more complex, featuring an additional strap that wraps around the chest to secure the arm firmly against the torso. These are necessary for shoulder dislocations or post-surgical recovery.
A less common type is the cuff and collar sling, which supports the wrist or elbow with a loop of material suspended from a neck strap, often used for certain upper arm fractures. For hand and finger injuries, an elevated arm sling may be used to position the hand higher than the heart, leveraging gravity to reduce swelling. A medical professional will determine the appropriate sling based on the location and severity of the injury.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Hold the sling pouch in your uninjured hand, ensuring the opening for the arm faces your body. Gently guide your injured arm into the fabric pouch, starting with your hand and sliding the forearm in. The elbow should be seated fully and snugly into the closed corner at the back of the sling’s pocket.
Once the elbow is secured, bring the strap over your back and across the shoulder on the uninjured side of your body. This positioning ensures the weight of the injured limb is distributed across the healthy shoulder, preventing strain on the neck and injured area. Fasten the strap according to the manufacturer’s directions, typically with a buckle or hook-and-loop fastener, but do not tighten it yet.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Positioning
The correct fit is achieved when the injured arm rests comfortably across the body, and the elbow is bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees. A primary positioning detail is that the hand should be slightly elevated above the elbow. This elevation promotes venous return and helps prevent fluid accumulation in the wrist and fingers. This slight upward tilt of the forearm is often referred to as the “thumb up” position and helps reduce swelling.
After setting the arm angle, adjust the strap tension so the sling feels secure without creating pressure points on the neck. If the strap digs into the skin, a padded sleeve or soft fabric can be placed underneath the strap where it crosses the neck for comfort. The entire forearm and wrist must be fully contained within the fabric pouch; no part of the wrist should be left unsupported and dangling, as this can cause undue strain on the injured joints.
Circulation Check
A regular circulation check is a necessary safety measure once the sling is in place. Press lightly on a fingernail of the injured hand until the color fades, then release to observe how quickly the pink color returns, which should take less than two seconds. Also check the fingers for warmth, normal skin color, and sensation. Any signs of numbness, tingling, or a cool, pale appearance require immediate loosening of the strap and rechecking. If symptoms persist after adjustment, seek medical advice promptly.
Daily Management and Care
Living with a sling requires careful consideration of hygiene and positional adjustments. To maintain skin integrity, it is important to clean the armpit and the skin underneath the sling fabric regularly, as these areas can become moist and irritated. When washing, you may temporarily remove the sling, but the injured arm must be supported and kept close to the body to prevent accidental movement.
Sleeping with a Sling
Sleeping with a sling can be challenging, but it is often required to maintain immobilization throughout the night. It is recommended to sleep on your back or on the uninjured side, using pillows to prop up and support the injured arm. A pillow placed under the arm provides a stable platform, helping to keep the shoulder relaxed and maintain the necessary elevation.
Cleaning the Sling
For long-term use, the sling must be kept clean, which usually involves hand-washing the fabric with mild detergent and allowing it to air dry completely, as machine drying can damage the material. If the sling becomes soiled, having a second sling available ensures continuous use while one is being cleaned. Increased pain, new or worsening swelling, or a complete loss of sensation in the fingers are warning signs that require immediate medical attention.