A medical sling is a supportive device designed to hold an injured upper limb—typically the arm, forearm, or shoulder—in a fixed, elevated, or rested position. Its primary role is to provide temporary support and immobilization for the affected area. Slings are commonly applied in cases of fractures, dislocations, or significant soft tissue injuries involving the shoulder, clavicle, elbow, or wrist.
Purpose and Function
The core function of a medical sling is to reduce movement of the injured limb. By supporting the weight of the arm, the sling reduces the downward pull of gravity on the injured site, which can be a major source of pain. This mechanical support helps to ease discomfort by keeping the arm in a comfortable, anatomical position.
Immobilization is necessary to promote the natural healing process, as excessive motion can disrupt the formation of new bone or the repair of torn ligaments and tendons. Slings are used after injuries like fractures or dislocations, and also following surgical procedures on the shoulder or arm to protect the repair site during the initial recovery phase. The controlled positioning provided by the sling is intended to keep the joint in an optimal alignment for recovery.
Different Types of Slings
The type of sling prescribed depends entirely on the specific injury and the required level of restriction. The Standard Arm Sling is the most common type and is generally used for minor injuries or post-cast support. This design primarily supports the forearm and wrist, with the hand typically resting slightly above the elbow to help manage swelling.
For more complex injuries, a Shoulder Immobilizer or swathe is often necessary to achieve a higher degree of restriction. This device combines an arm pouch with an additional strap that wraps around the chest and torso, securing the arm tightly against the body. Immobilizers are used for significant shoulder injuries, such as dislocations or certain types of clavicle fractures, because they prevent the arm from moving away from the body (abduction) and across the body (adduction).
Another variation is the Shoulder Sling with an Abduction Pillow, sometimes referred to as an Ultrasling, which is often used after rotator cuff repairs or shoulder replacements. This specialized sling includes a dense foam wedge that rests between the patient’s chest and the arm, holding the shoulder joint slightly away from the body in a specific degree of abduction. This position is crucial for protecting certain surgical repairs, such as those involving the rotator cuff tendons, by reducing tension on the repaired tissue.
Essential Care While Wearing a Sling
One of the most important steps is checking the circulation in the hand of the affected arm multiple times a day. Signs such as fingers turning pale or blue, feeling unusually cold, or an inability to wiggle the fingers indicate a potential circulation issue that requires immediate medical attention. Patients should ensure the skin remains clean and dry, particularly in the armpit area and around the neck where the support strap rests, to prevent irritation or chafing.
While bathing, the sling can typically be removed, but the injured arm must be kept close to the body without actively using it to maintain the immobilization. The sling should be adjusted so the elbow is comfortably seated in the pocket and the hand is slightly elevated relative to the elbow, a position that helps to reduce swelling. It is also helpful to perform gentle finger and wrist exercises, if permitted by a doctor, to prevent stiffness and encourage blood flow.