|  | Conditions Treatments | Bones, Joints Muscles

What Is a Shoulder Sling?

Certain injuries require immobilization of the affected body part. An example is a dislocated shoulder. Once the shoulder is back into place it needs to remain stable so it can heal. A shoulder sling accomplishes this by keeping the shoulder and arm immobile. A shoulder sling can be part of a medically prescribed treatment or an emergency device used to prevent further injury pending care by a medical provider.

  1. Dislocated Shoulder

    • A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone pops out of its socket in the shoulder blade. It is a more serious injury than a separated shoulder according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include swelling, pain and an obvious bone out of place. Do not attempt to put the bone back as that may cause further injury. Only a qualified medical provider should fix the shoulder. Place the arm in a shoulder sling so the arm does not move. Apply ice to the shoulder to minimize swelling. Seek medical treatment immediately.

    Emergency Sling

    • Applying a shoulder sling in an emergency situation prevents further injury. A dislocated shoulder can occur during a fall while hiking or during sports activities. Prior to placing the injured shoulder in a sling check for any open wounds and treat as necessary. Make a sling from a cloth, sheet, belt, rope or any available material. The idea is to hold the shoulder and arm still without cutting off circulation. Tighten as necessary. The sling needs to be a triangle with the arm at a right angle along the bottom. The two sides need to be tied near the shoulder. This sling is a temporary device until medical treatment is obtained.

    Emergency Treatment

    • If the shoulder or arm bone has broken the skin or the shoulder cannot be immobilized without risking further injury call 911. Do not attempt a homemade shoulder sling that might cause permanent injury. Wait for a professional who has the right materials and proper training to apply a shoulder sling.

    Frozen Shoulder

    • One complication that arises from use of a shoulder sling is frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis. While the shoulder is immobilized in the sling, the shoulder becomes stiff and painful. Once the sling is removed motion is restricted. Treatment includes stretching exercises and physical therapy to loosen the shoulder. The condition generally improves with time, with most frozen shoulders healing completely within 12 to 18 months, according to Mayo Clinic.

Bones, Joints Muscles - Related Articles