If you ever need to use a sling for your arm, whether it’s because you’ve broken it or because you need some help with dressing it, learning how to make your own sling can save you some time and money. In addition, it’s important to know how to properly wear a sling so you can protect your shoulder and arm while it heals.
A sling can be used for a number of injuries including broken arms, dislocations and fractures. It can also help you regain your strength and mobility after an injury or accident so you can be more active again.
You can make a sling by yourself from anything that can hang and loop around your arm, such as a large scarf, a piece of cloth or even a tent’s rainfly. The technique is the same no matter what you’re using.
Slings are designed to keep your arm immobile, which is needed in the case of a shoulder dislocation. They can also help with fractures if worn in combination with a splint.
To make a sling, you need a wide piece of fabric, such as a piece of cotton, canvas, or some other heavy cloth. This can be something you find at a craft store or on Amazon.
Next, tie a knot in one end of the long piece of fabric. Wrap the other end of the fabric around your arm and elbow, ensuring that the whole arm is inside the sling. If you have any excess fabric on either side of your arm, fold it over and pin it to the sling with a large safety pin for extra support.
Keeping the sling tight enough is crucial to ensure the sling doesn’t twist or cause any problems. If you’re not sure how to get the sling tight, consult your healthcare provider or physical therapist.
The best way to do this is by practicing. Start with a practice sling and swing it to see how the sling reacts to your body. If it twists, try to straighten it out by letting it hang in front of you or drawing it through your hand.
When you’re ready to use the sling, hold it behind your back and adjust the tension until it is comfortable. This may take a bit of practice, but once you’ve mastered the sling, it’ll become easier to use.
You can then use it to hold your arm in place while you’re showering or doing other activities, such as lifting weights, that require your upper body muscles to work. It can be a little uncomfortable at first, but it will help you heal faster.
Washing and dressing your sling is another essential skill to master. It’s important to keep it clean, especially if you have an open wound. This will prevent fluid and blood from pooling in the sling, which can cause more harm to your arm.
You should wash any open wounds with cold water, if possible, and avoid washing with hot water or using harsh soap. You can also apply a bandage over the wound.
