Bone, Muscle & Joint Injuries – Part 4: Slings
- Jason T
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Bone, Muscle & Joint Injuries – Part 4: Slings and Arm Support Techniques
In the previous parts of our Bone, Muscle & Joint Injury series, we focused on splinting techniques during emergencies. Now that the injury has been immobilized, it’s time to explore how to further support the injured limb using a sling. Whether you're waiting for emergency personnel to arrive or transporting the injured person to a medical facility, proper use of a sling can greatly increase comfort and help prevent further harm.
Important Reminder: You may not need to move the patient. If in doubt, wait for trained medical professionals. Keeping the person still can reduce pain and minimize complications.
What Is a Sling?
A sling is a wide triangular bandage or cloth used to support an injured arm by suspending it from the neck. It helps reduce movement, relieve discomfort, and protect the injury.
There are two main types of slings used in first aid:
Regular Sling: Supports the arm horizontally across the abdomen.
Tube Sling: Holds the arm slightly upright across the chest.
Choosing the Right Sling
Select the sling that offers the most comfort with the least movement of the injured limb:
If the arm hangs down, use a regular sling.
If the arm is elevated or bent, use a tube sling.
Ideally, use a triangular bandage long enough to reach from the person’s shoulder to the floor. If none is available, improvise with a piece of cloth roughly as wide as the torso.
How to Apply a Regular Sling
Check circulation: Compare the warmth and color of the fingers on both hands. Ask the person if they feel numbness or tingling. Remove rings if possible.
With the arm supported across the body (fingers pointing toward the opposite shoulder), position the triangular bandage under the injured arm. The point should extend past the elbow.
Bring the bottom corner of the bandage up over the opposite shoulder.
Tie both ends of the bandage at the back of the neck. Ensure the knot does not press on the spine.
Twist the fabric at the elbow end to secure it and prevent it from slipping.
Use a broad bandage to secure the elbow against the torso.
Recheck circulation after applying the sling.
How to Apply a Tube Sling
Check circulation as noted above.
Gently bring the injured forearm across the chest with the hand pointing toward the opposite shoulder.
Drape the triangular bandage over the arm, with the point extending beyond the elbow.
Tuck the bandage underneath the arm from wrist to elbow.
Twist the point near the elbow to secure it.
Bring the ends around the back and tie them in the hollow above the collarbone on the uninjured side.
Pad between the arm and chest for comfort and to maintain positioning.
Secure the elbow to the torso with a broad bandage.
Recheck circulation.
General First Aid for Bone, Muscle & Joint Injuries
Scene safety first. Once safe, check the person’s Airway, Breathing, and Circulation (ABCs). Always wear gloves if available to avoid contact with bodily fluids.
Call 911 if:
There’s a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury.
It’s a motor vehicle accident.
The area is unsafe.
The injury is life-threatening.
If help is expected to arrive soon, do not move or splint the injury. Immobilize in the position found and keep the person still.
Care for the injury:
Always follow directions from 911 or medical professionals.
Treat life-threatening conditions first, with minimal movement.
Apply the R.I.C.E. method:
Rest the injured limb.
Immobilize the area (using splints or slings).
Cool with ice for 20 minutes per hour (avoid direct contact with skin).
Elevate the limb if possible and if it does not increase pain.
Final Thoughts
You never know when an emergency may occur, but having the right knowledge and calm confidence to act can make all the difference. A properly applied sling offers protection, comfort, and reassurance to someone in pain—and it could be the first step toward healing.
Stay prepared. Stay calm. Save lives.- Saving Grace Medical Academy
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This educational content aligns with guidelines from the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Alberta Health Services, and Canadian Red Cross. It is not a substitute for certified medical training. Always consult an instructor or physician when in doubt.
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Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor