Sling

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

To apply a sling:

  • Support the arm above and below the site of the injury.
  • Place the triangular bandage under the injured arm and over the uninjured shoulder to form the sling.
  • 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 stiffness or even a frozen shoulder.

Current as of: March 2, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine

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