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# Slings

When a person has an arm or shoulder injury, a doctor may recommend using a sling while the injury heals. A sling is a great way to keep weight and pressure off the injured area while also preventing motion of the injured joints. This is a key component of the healing process because any movement may cause additional injuries and slow healing.

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## What Are Slings?

Essentially, a sling is a section of fabric or material that is used to hold an injured arm in place. Slings are commonly made of soft, comfortable fabric, such as cotton. An average sling will be triangular in shape so that it can be wrapped around the arm and upper torso. Placement of the sling is important to keep the arm immobilized while also keeping the patient comfortable.

## How to Use a Sling

Slings are most often used for injuries to the arm or shoulder. When someone suffers an injury to this area of the body, it can be extremely painful and debilitating. Moving the arm or shoulder even slightly can cause intense pain and additional injuries. This is why it’s so important to prevent arm movement while keeping the injured person as comfortable as possible.

This is why slings are ideal for these injuries. To use a sling, the cotton bandage or other material must be wrapped around the injured person’s arm and upper torso. The goal is to keep the person’s arm suspended in front of them, across the chest, and bent at the elbow. The bandage should be wrapped firmly to prevent excess movement, but not so tightly as to cut off circulation.

When applied properly, the injured person will be able to comfortably rest their injured limb in the sling while moving, standing, or sitting.

## Common Types of Slings

There are several different types of slings that can be used in various situations. Choosing the right type of sling is a decision a doctor can make after assessing a patient's injuries.

## Common or Standard Sling

This type of sling is the one that most people are familiar with. It is usually used when a person has a broken forearm or a sprain. These slings are made from a triangular piece of cloth that is wrapped around the forearm and tied behind the back. In this way, the standard sling can keep the patient’s arm immobilized, preventing further damage.

## Collar and Cuff Sling

This type of sling is most often used to secure the arm of a person with an upper arm injury. The sling is wrapped around the patient's wrist so the forearm can be brought up and across the chest, then secured at the opposite shoulder. Once the wrist is in place, the sling can be secured with a knot behind the neck.

## Shoulder Sling

A shoulder sling is used to keep an injured shoulder from moving during the healing process. Like the standard sling, a triangular piece of cloth is used to hold the wrist and forearm at an elevated point in front of the chest. However, the arm is not pulled forward as much as with a standard sling. This allows the shoulder to remain immobile.

Arm injuries can be extremely painful and inconvenient. To heal quickly and return to normal function, patients can consult a doctor to determine which type of sling is best for their situation. With proper medical treatment, an arm injury can heal quickly, allowing the patient to return to their normal life.

If you are experiencing pain that might require a sling, you can always visit any of our Texas locations. Our board-certified physicians will get you taken care of within the comforts of our fully stocked facility. Schedule an emergency room appointment with us.

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