Arm sling

An arm sling is a support sling for an injured forearm, wrist or hand. It is made from a triangular bandage tied around the neck. The injured arm rests in the sling and is relieved of strain.

When do you use an arm sling?

You use an arm sling to support the arm after an injury to the fingers, wrist or forearm up to the elbow, for example a fracture, large wound or bruise. The entire forearm, from the elbow to the fingers, rests in the sling. The sling is tied around the neck.

How do you use an arm sling?

The hand and fingers should lie slightly higher than the elbow. This prevents congestion. With congestion, blood flows down towards the hand and fingers and cannot be drained properly. This causes swelling and a painful, throbbing sensation.

Is the problem higher up in the arm or shoulder? It is then better to apply a broad sling. A broad sling is a band that hangs over the shoulder. It supports the wrist but leaves the rest of the forearm and elbow free.

Has the injury just occurred and do you not have anything available to make an arm sling? Use your healthy arm to support the injured arm.

How do you put on an arm sling?

Putting on an arm sling is not difficult. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Place the sling against the body and under the injured arm. The point should be on the elbow side. The upper part should lie over the shoulder of the uninjured arm.
• Step 2: Take the lower part of the sling and place it over the shoulder of the injured arm.
• Step 3: Tie the ends together with a reef knot in a place where it will not cause irritation. Fold the point of the sling forwards at the elbow and secure it with a safety pin or plaster/tape.
• Step 4: Ensure that the fingers protrude slightly.

Then check that the sling is comfortable and that the hand is slightly higher than the elbow to prevent congestion.