How to Wear an Arm Sling

Slings are used to help prevent further injury to an already injured arm. Injured such as sprains or breaks in any part of the arm or shoulder can all be made much worse by vigorous movement, or swelling. The sling helps to keep your arm stationary, and also keeps it elevated to prevent swelling. How long you will need to wear one will vary, but it will not be too difficult to wear it properly.

Instructions

1. Position your arm at around waist level, then bend your elbow about 90 degrees so that your arm is across the front of your waist.

2. Put the strap of the sling around your neck and upper back, and fasten it. Fastening may depend on the style of sling, but they are usually designed with adhesive at the end of the straps to make it easy to fasten.

3. Position your arm so that your elbow rests in the closed end of the sling. Adjust your arm's position until you are comfortable, but make sure your arm is still elevated and fitting properly in the sling, meaning that your elbow is resting in the closed end, and your arm is across the front of your waist.

Tips & Warnings

• Your fingers should be visible so that you notice any discoloration that may result from your injury.

• You may want to have two slings so that you can wash one and use the other.

References

• Drugs.com; How to Use a Sling
• Narang Medical Limited; Arm/Shoulder Support
• University of Michigan Health System; How to Use a Sling

Resources

• Walgreens Ace Arm Sling