A medical sling supports the limb and restricts movement, thereby helping it to maintain the optimal position for healing. People require slings for a wide array of medical impairments, including fractures, nerve damage and muscle injuries. They come in a variety of colors, including fun prints for pediatric patients. Doctors may add a splint to keep the area straight and help reduce swelling.

Support That Promotes Healing

Slings give the limb time to heal by preventing joint movement and keeping muscles from contracting. By allowing the limb to rest in a more comfortable position, slings may reduce pain. The restriction can also reduce the risk that patients use the limb in such a way that accidentally causes re-injury. For patients who have lost mobility from nerve damage or a stroke, a sling reduces discomfort by supporting the dangling limb. Other slings feature wrist extenders to support the hand for injuries to the wrist or fingers.

Adjustable for Different Needs

Depending on a patient's injury, the person may need to elevate the limb higher or lower. Most slings feature adjustable straps to support the correct position. Adjustable slings also accommodate patients of different heights and builds for versatile care and a streamlined orthopedic supply closet. Envelope or pocket-style slings that have deep compartments can accommodate a broader range of arm sizes than those that are shallow. Larger slings also work well with casts, when required. Consider looking for wide straps that distribute weight more effectively for improved support and comfort.

Easy Fasteners

Patients must often take slings on and off at home, such as for bathing or sleeping. Doctors may prefer fasteners that people can adjust while maintaining limited movement, such as hook-and-loop closures, which provide a secure grip that patients can unfasten or re-fasten with the use of a one hand.

Comfortable Fabrics

You can keep patients more comfortable by selecting sling materials that are soft, breathable and durable. Scratchy fabrics can chafe the skin, while non-breathable materials can prevent air circulation and make the area hot. The material must also stay tough enough to withstand routine use and support the limb without stretching out. Patients might prefer fabrics that blend natural and breathable materials, such as cotton, with strong and durable fibers, such as polyester. Manufacturers create slings with poly-cotton blends so you can easily launder them in washing machines, which is an added bonus for long-term care. Built-in pads remain useful for adding cushion to reduce chafing and pulling.

Immobilizers for Shoulder Restriction

Injuries to shoulder areas, such as the rotator cuff, require a different type of restriction than an arm sling provides. A traditional arm sling, or high sling, holds the arm close to the chest by rotating the shoulder. By contrast, immobilizers allow the shoulder to remain in a neutral position by holding the arm at a 90-degree angle with straps to restrict movement below and above the elbow. This position helps reduce pressure on the shoulder and prevents movements that may cause pain or re-injury. Medical personnel size immobilizers by chest circumference, so medical facilities should carry a range of sizes to fit patients.

Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and are based on scientific and technical research noted below. The information does not constitute a medical consultation and cannot replace medical advice. Any information should never be used as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other health care provider.