An arm sling is a medical device designed to support and immobilize the upper limb, including the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder, following an injury or surgery. Its primary function is to prevent movement of the affected area, which reduces strain on muscles, tendons, and bones, promoting proper healing and managing pain. By restricting motion, a sling helps maintain the injured arm in a stable, elevated position, which reduces swelling. The specific type of sling required depends heavily on the nature and severity of the injury.
Finding Slings at Physical Retail Locations
For immediate support, purchasing a sling from a brick-and-mortar store allows for instant use and physical inspection. Local pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) and big-box retailers (Target, Walmart) consistently stock basic, simple pouch-style slings in their health and wellness sections. These locations offer convenience and accessibility, often featuring universal or one-size-fits-most options. For higher-quality or more specialized orthopedic devices, local medical supply stores are the best resource, as they carry professional-grade slings and have knowledgeable staff who can offer guidance on fit and function.
Buying Slings Online and Through Specialized Suppliers
Purchasing an arm sling online offers a wider variety of products and often lower prices than physical stores. Large e-commerce platforms, like Amazon, feature extensive inventories, allowing for direct comparison of features, materials, and user reviews. Specialized medical equipment websites stock higher-grade and post-operative slings designed for specific conditions, such as rotator cuff repair or complex fracture recovery. Additionally, slings are often acquired directly from a healthcare provider, such as a hospital or clinic, particularly after surgery, and their cost may be covered as part of the medical procedure.
Understanding the Different Types of Arm Slings
The type of arm sling needed is determined by the specific injury and the required degree of immobilization. The most common is the basic pouch sling, which cradles the forearm and wrist, maintaining the elbow at a roughly 90-degree angle for minor sprains or strains. A shoulder immobilizer sling provides greater restriction by incorporating a strap that wraps around the torso, securing the arm snugly against the body. Immobilizers minimize rotation and movement, and are prescribed for significant injuries like dislocations, fractures, or post-surgical recovery. More specialized is the abduction sling, which includes a firm foam pillow to hold the arm away from the body, a position often required after complex shoulder surgeries like rotator cuff repairs.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Sizing
Selecting the correct size is crucial for comfort, pain management, and effective healing, as incorrect sizing can slow recovery. For standard pouch slings, measure from the elbow to the base of the little finger; the sling should support the wrist without covering the hand entirely. The strap length must be adjusted so the hand is slightly elevated above the elbow, which encourages venous return and helps reduce swelling. Look for features like padded neck straps to prevent pressure, breathable materials to manage moisture, and adjustable closures for fine-tuning the fit.