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Sling

A sling is a bandage used to support an injured arm.

To apply a sling:

  1. Support the arm above and below the site of the injury.
  2. Place the triangular bandage under the injured arm and over the uninjured shoulder to form the sling.
  3. Tie the ends of the sling at the side of the neck.

Do not use a sling for a long period of time. Immobilizing an arm for too long can cause a frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).

Author Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer H. Michael O'Connor, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Last Updated August 31, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 31, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.