Sling (medicine)
Device to limit arm movement
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A sling or arm sling is a device to limit movement of the shoulder and elbow, or protect the hand while an injury heals,[1] made of cloth or a similar material. The sling normally holds the forearm against the body, horizontally or higher.[2] A triangular bandage[1] 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.[3]
| Sling | |
|---|---|
An arm sling on a person's right hand | |
| Other names | Arm sling |
Types
Sling types include:[4]
- High arm
- Collar and cuff
- Broad arm
Indications
Common clinical indications:[5]
- 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.[6]