During an emergency, you can make a quick sling for your arm in cases such as broken arm, sprains, dislocation etc. Here are some tips to make one:
- Get a good-size square cloth: The length of the fabric you need will depend on your height and size. Make sure that the fabric is not elastic in nature, stretchy fabric will not give you the immobility that your hand requires.
- Folding process: Fold the cloth diagonally to make a triangle. The middle portion of the sling will support your arm and the thin corners of the triangle will form a neckband behind your head.
- Dress your wound before using the sling: If your arm has any open wound, it is advisable to gently wash the open wound with water at room temperature. Remove dirt or any other debris from the wound, then apply a bandage.
- Position your injured arm at a 90degrees: Position your injured arm at an angle of 90degree across your chest, then use your other arm to slip the folded triangular piece of fabric over the shoulder of your uninjured arm. Then let the rest of the fabric hang so that it is pointing towards the floor.
- Gently grab the other end: Using your uninjured arm, grab the corner of the triangle that is pointing towards the floor and bring it up across your body, over the opposite shoulder at the other end of the fabric and behind your neck.
- Tie the ends behind your neck: When you have found a comfortable length for your sling, tie a simple knot in the two ends of the sling material to secure the sling behind your neck. If the knot makes you feel uncomfortable, you can try placing a soft towel on the back of your neck. Be sure to maintain good posture while wearing the sling and don’t forget: “A life of probity is worth living!”
