A sling or arm sling is a device to limit movement of the shoulder and elbow, or protect the hand while an injury heals, made of cloth or a similar material. The sling normally holds the forearm against the body, horizontally or higher. Article describing broad arm, poly, and high arm slings, with advice on use. A triangular bandage or simply a strip of cloth may be used as a sling. Various purpose-made slings are available, ranging from simple strips to felt slings made to cushion the arm from elbow to wrist, with a neck strap, often using hook-and-loop fasteners on a felt body. Page illustrating a variety of commercially available slings.
Types Sling types include:
High arm Collar and cuff Broad arm
Indications Common clinical indications:
Dislocated shoulder: the head of the humerus is detached from the glenoid fossa Clavicle fracture: partial or complete break of the clavicle bone Acromioclavicular separation: injury to the acromioclavicular joint Shoulder sprains
Risks Prolonged shoulder sling use could lead to a frozen shoulder.
See also
Splint (medicine)
References