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Use of Slings for Subluxation in Stroke Patients

Following a stroke, you can have a number of problems. One problem is shoulder subluxation. In some cases, a sling is used preventing this problem. A sling is not always the best course of treatment. A therapist and doctor will aid you in determining if use of a sling is right for you or your loved one after a stroke.

  1. Stroke

    • A stroke is the abrupt death of some cells of the brain because not enough oxygen gets to them. This happens when the flow of blood to the brain is interrupted by blockage as in the case of a clot formation or rupture of an artery causing bleeding in the brain. The more technical term for a stroke is a cerebral vascular accident (CVA).

    Subluxation

    • Shoulder subluxation is an incomplete dislocation of the arm at the shoulder joint that happens in numerous people after having a stroke. In most cases, the upper arm bone goes down out of the shoulder joint. This condition happens because of either severe muscle weakness around the shoulder or uncontrollable movement of the muscles.

      Sometimes because of muscle weakness, the muscles can not hold the weight of the arm at the shoulder. This can also cause the shoulder blade to lose its normal position. Uncontrollable muscle movements around the shoulder joint can pull the shoulder blade into abnormal positions.

    Slings

    • A shoulder sling is used to support your arm. It may realign or improve alignment of the shoulder in a certain position while providing support. Slings should be used within 72 hours of having a stroke because if used later in the recovery process its use can cause severe pain. Using a sling can impede natural arm swing during walking. Some stroke patients do not like the look of a sling. Slings are easier for caregiver to use than other therapy devices.

      Each stroke patient has specific needs which should be considered before using a sling. A sling may be used in combination with another devise. Shoulder strapping is more effective when it is used with a sling, especially in the first 3 to 5 days following a stroke according to TS Goldstein in Geriatric Urthopaedics. Rehabilitative Management of Common Problems.

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