Sling

A sling is a support bandage 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 a sling?

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

How do you use a sling?

The hand and fingers should lie slightly higher than the elbow. This prevents pooling. With pooling, blood flows down to the hand and fingers and cannot drain properly, causing swelling and a painful throbbing sensation.

If the problem is higher up in the arm or shoulder, it is better to use a broad arm support. This is a band that hangs over the shoulder. It supports the wrist but leaves the rest of the forearm and elbow free.

If the injury has just occurred and you have nothing with which to make a sling, use your healthy arm to support the injured arm.

How do you put on a sling?

Putting on a 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 flat knot in a place where it will not cause irritation. Fold the point of the sling at the elbow forward and secure it with a safety pin or adhesive bandage/tape.
• Step 4: Make sure the fingers protrude slightly.

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