How to Sleep in an Arm Sling

An arm sling is commonly used for arm, elbow or shoulder injuries. Wearing a sling keeps the injured body part stationary, protecting it and maintaining appropriate positioning to promote proper healing. A sling also allows arm and shoulder muscles to relax to prevent muscular tightness, which could hamper healing and increase pain. Sleeping with a sling may be a bit uncomfortable, as you may have to adjust your normal sleep position in order to protect your arm while dozing.

Things You'll Need

• 4 or 5 pillows

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Instructions

Sleeping on Your Back

• 1

  Position your body comfortably on your back with your head properly supported by a pillow or two.

• 2

  Place a pillow under your knees to reduce lower back stress.

• 3

  Put a pillow against the side of your slinged arm in a slightly raised position.

• 4

  Position a pillow between your torso and your slinged arm so that your arm is resting comfortably against your body.

• 5

  If you choose to sleep on the side opposite of your injured arm, rest the sling against the side of your body. Use pillows against both your back and your stomach to support your injured arm and prevent it from slipping out of position.