Getting the sling on without a struggle
Slings are simple once you have done it a few times, but the first attempts after shoulder surgery can be awkward, particularly when you are sore and using only one hand. If you are having trouble putting your sling on, the video below should help you get it sorted.
Why a sling is used
After many shoulder operations the arm is rested in a sling for a period. The sling is not simply for comfort: it holds the arm in a position that takes tension off repaired tissue while it heals, and it acts as a visible reminder, to you and to everyone around you, not to use the arm in ways that could put the repair at risk.
Getting the fit right
A sling that is poorly adjusted causes more problems than the operation does. In general terms, the forearm should be supported along its length rather than dangling from the wrist, the elbow should sit comfortably bent at roughly a right angle and held in towards the body, and the strap should carry the weight across the back and opposite shoulder rather than digging into the neck. The hand should sit slightly higher than the elbow so that it does not swell.
If the strap is rubbing, a folded cloth or soft pad under it usually solves the problem. If your hand or fingers become numb, tingly or swollen, the sling is likely too tight or badly positioned and should be adjusted.
How long to wear it
How long the sling stays on, and whether you may take it off for exercises, washing or sleeping, depends entirely on what was done at your operation. Those instructions are specific to you and come from your surgeon and physiotherapist. The general guidance here is not a substitute for them.
With thanks
With thanks to Lucy Angelini, physiotherapist from Extend Therapy, who appears in the video.
Related information
Our rehabilitation page sets out what recovery after shoulder surgery generally involves, and the surgery FAQs answer many of the practical questions about the first few weeks. See also our post on how to shower with a sling.