Shoulder Sling / Shoulder Immobilizers & Supports

There are many different types of shoulder slings. There are shoulder stabilizers, standard shoulder slings, and shoulder immobilizers. These products are very similar, yet different. Here’s how.

Standard Shoulder Slings

A regular shoulder sling, aka an arm sling, is a medical product constructed of a durable yet slightly flexible fabric. The injured arm is slid carefully and gently into the pocket of the sling, and the crossbody strap of the sling is placed over the head on the opposite shoulder. The sling cradles the arm against the body, with the elbow at a 90-degree angle.

In order to help you heal, the shoulder sling or arm sling must be worn the right way. It should be adjusted by an experienced medical professional, and should prevent your shoulder from moving any more than necessary. Wearing a shoulder sling improperly is not only not good for the injured area, but it can be severely detrimental; it can actually cause blood or fluid to build up in your hand and wrist. Help your shoulder heal well by applying your shoulder sling properly, and ask your doctor how often you need to wear it. Wearing a sling for too long can cause a stiff shoulder.

Generally, slings are worn for up 4 weeks following injury or surgery, and then are often worn just at night for another 2 weeks.

Shoulder Stabilizers

A shoulder stabilizer is a contoured stabilizing product worn over the upper torso and upper arms. It provides support and restricts movement of the shoulder muscles. It also reduces the risk of re-injury to the shoulder.

Shoulder Immobilizers

A shoulder immobilizer is a type of shoulder sling that supports the shoulder and keeps properly positioned against your body. It prevents the shoulder from moving into an incorrect position, and keeps it in place so that it can heal. Shoulder immobilizers are usually worn after a fracture or post-surgery.

Sling and Swathe Shoulder Immobilizers

Sling and Swathe Shoulder Immobilizers are most often used when moving the shoulder joint can cause harm. These shoulder immobilizers support your shoulder and position your arm against the body. The arm is cradled by the sling, and the swath keeps the arm firm and immobile in its position against the body. The Sling and Swathe shoulder immobilizer does the best job of keeping your shoulder in position at all times; even when asleep.

When are Shoulder Slings Worn?

There are several situations where wearing a shoulder sling can be of assistance in helping you recover at an ideal pace.

1. Post Surgery: A sling is usually worn after having shoulder surgery, since it stops the muscles from becoming stiff and tight. A strong contraction of shoulder muscles can cause the recently repaired muscle to become torn. Wearing a sling prevents these contractions.
2. Post Stroke: A stroke often causes paralysis in body limbs. If the shoulder or arm has become partially or entirely paralyzed after an individual suffered a stroke, an arm sling is used. It will keep your arm from pulling at your shoulder and possibly dislocating the arm from its socket.
3. After a Fracture: If someone has a broken or dislocated shoulder, wrist, collarbone or elbow, he will need to wear a shoulder sling. This will keep the fractured limb from becoming dislocated and from moving too much.
4. After a Shoulder Strain or Sprain: A sling is often recommended by doctors to limit the movement of the sprained or strained shoulder, and prevent you from putting weight on it. This can help it heal more quickly.
5. Following a Soft Tissue Tear: A shoulder sling can be worn after a soft tissue tear in the shoulder. It should only be worn until the pain subsides.

Finding a Supportive Shoulder Brace Online

When looking for a shoulder brace online, you want a quality product, but you also want an easy shopping experience.

At AvaCare Medical, we not only carry the best medical products; we also offer stellar customer service and a remarkably smooth shopping experience.

AvaCare has a full selection of everything shoulder support related, including traditional shoulder slings, shoulder stabilizers, sling and swathe slings, and much more.

There are also arm immobilizers, arm slings, and other arm support medical products.

No matter your specific needs, AvaCare Medical is the place to find just what you need to help your shoulder or arm heal. Shop online or contact our customer care reps to find the product for you.