WEARING A SHOULDER SLING

The type of sling, and the amount of time you will need to wear the sling, will depend on the operation performed.

 LIVING WITH A SHOULDER SLING

 If you have a Rotator Cuff Repair, Stabilisation shoulder or Shoulder Replacement operation you will have to wear a sling for several weeks. Here are some of the things you will have to consider.

 Types of sling:

  Poly-sling    Abduction sling

 The type of sling you wear will depend on the operation performed by the consultant. 

 Dressing:

In the first 3-6 weeks you may find it easier to wear your clothes over the sling. You will require loose clothing that fastens at the front or large baggy     t-shirts.

When you are allowed to wear your sling or abduction sling over your clothes here is some advice:

Ø   Once you are able to dress, always dress the operation arm first.

Ø   Sit on the edge of a chair or stand, lean forward, letting the operation arm hang by your side.

Ø   Slide your clothes over the operation arm using your un-operated arm.

Ø   Do not assist with the operation arm just let it hang.

Ø   Once the arm is fully in the sleeve bring the garment around your back and dress the un-operated arm.

Ø   Fasten the garment with the un-operated arm.

Ø   Once you are dressed put the sling back on.

Dressing the operation arm

ADVICE

·     Avoid clothing with small buttons, hooks and zips.

·     Trousers or skirts with elastic waists will be easier to take on and off.

·     Ladies may find a bra uncomfortable and may prefer to wear a strapless or front fastening bra.

·     Consider slip-on, easy fitting shoes.

By 6 weeks after your operation you should be able to dress “normally” again.

Washing:

Ø   If you are in a sling or abduction sling you will probably need help with washing in the first few weeks.

Ø   You may need assistance to wash the un-operated arm, as you will not be able to use the operation arm.

Ø   Use a cubicle or over bath shower, or wash leaning over the sink.

Ø   Keep the surgical wounds dry and protected when washing.

Ø   Waterproof dressings may be provided.

Washing with a polysling:

• Take the sling off, keeping your arm by your side and your hand against your stomach.
• Gently lean forward, keep the operation arm relaxed until the arm falls away from your side.
• This will allow you to wash, dry and use deodorant under the arm.
• Do not assist with the operation arm, just let it hang loose.
• Place your arm back in the sling before stand upright.

Washing with an abduction sling:

• Do not remove the abduction sling or wedge to wash.
• Place a small towel under the arm on top of the wedge.
• Use a cloth to wash and rinse under the arm.
• Dry and use deodorant.
• Remove the towel.

Feeding:

• You will need to feed yourself with your un-operated hand only for 6 weeks.

Transferring:

• This means getting in and out of your chair, bed and bath and getting on and off the toilet.
• In the first 6 weeks you must only push up from the chair, bed etc. using your un-operated arm.
• After 6 weeks you may return to using both arms as pain allows.

Sleeping:

• For the first 6 weeks your sling should be kept on in bed.
• You may find it more comfortable to sleep on your back with a pillow under the operation arm for support.
• Or sleep in a semi-sitting position supported by pillows.
• Or on your side supported by pillows.

• Wearing the abduction sling it may be more comfortable and easier to sleep in a semi-sitting position supported by pillows
• Or on your side supported by pillows.

 Kitchen activities:

• This includes making meals, snacks and drinks.
• For the first 6 weeks you must use your un-operated arm for all kitchen activities.
• After 6 weeks you may return to using both arms and start to lift lighter items at this time.
• AVOID LIFTING ANYTHING HEAVY FOR 3 MONTHS.

• KITCHEN ADVICE
  1. Consider filling the kettle using a small jug and only fill it for the required amount.
  2. Heat small amounts of water in the microwave.
  3. Before coming into hospital you may wish to prepare food for the freezer.
  4. Buy easily prepared meals to eat after your operation.
  5. Serve directly from the pan using a spoon to avoid lifting heavy pots.
  6. Avoid putting heavy dishes into the oven which will require two hands to remove when they are hot.

Housework:

• You can start light housework, using the operation arm, after 6 weeks.
• More strenuous housework that involves heavy lifting should be avoided for 3 months after your operation.

• If you use a stick or crutch to walk it, must be used in the un-operated hand for 6 weeks following the operation.
• If you walk with a frame or wheeled walker please discuss this with the consultant or the pre-assessment nurse before your operation.
• Hold the banister with your un-operated hand, when climbing or descending stairs, for the first 6 weeks. You may require a second banister.