Arm slings are a great way of providing support to an injured part of the arm. This method allows the injury to remain still, so in cases where movement may cause more damage or pain, an arm sling is a great way of preventing further injury.
However, keep in mind that this will not heal a wound and is to be considered a temporary solution that provides enough time for the injured person to see a doctor or seek medical help.
What is an arm Sling?
An arm sling is a device used to support and keep still (immobilize) an injured part of the body. Slings can be used for many different injuries, however, they are most often used when you have a broken (fractured) or dislocated arm, elbow, or shoulder.
How to apply an arm sling
– Ask the casualty to support their arm with their other hand. Gently slide the triangular bandage underneath the arm. The point of the triangle should be underneath the elbow of the injured arm. Bring the top end of the bandage around the back of the neck.
– Fold the lower end of the bandage up over the forearm to meet the top of the bandage at the shoulder of the injured side.
– Tie the two ends of the bandage together in a reef knot above their collarbone and tuck in the free ends.
– Adjust the sling so that it supports their arm all the way to the end of their little finger.
– Make sure that the edge of the bandage by the elbow is secured by twisting the fabric and tucking it in, or using a safety pin to fasten it.
– Check the circulation in their fingertips every 10 minutes. Press their nail for 5 seconds until it turns pale, then release to see if the colour returns within 2 seconds.
What types of sling are there?
There are three main types of sling: the broad arm sling, the high arm sling, collar and cuff.
Broad arm sling
This type of sling is used to support the arm. You need to take the sling off at night.
When it is on:
– You should be able to see the tips of your fingers.
– Your hand should be a bit higher than your elbow.
High arm sling
This type of sling is recommended to keep your hand or wrist up to lessen swelling in that area. You will need to take the sling off at night. Similar to the broad arm sling, when it is on:
– You should be able to see your fingertips.
– Your hand should be marginally higher than your elbow.
Collar and cuff
This type of sling is recommended usually for injuries to the shoulder and elbow. The sling is most commonly fastened with Velcro. Make sure the loop of the cuff is around your wrist. You need to take the sling off at night.
Futura splints
This is a support splint for wrists that are injured, weak, or in need of support after the removal of a plaster cast. They are sometimes used for injuries of the thumb. There are two types – one that covers the thumb and another that leaves the thumb uncovered.
Usually the nurse or doctor caring for you will show you how to apply the splint and where to put the metal supports. For the splint to work properly, you will need to follow the instructions they give you carefully. Take the sling off at night.
We hope that this blog helped you to understand arm slings more and how they are applied. If you are interested in reading more of our blogs check out our blog page here.
