Advanced shoulder sling: Integrating versatile features into a triangular bandage

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic biomechanics
• Rehabilitation engineering
• Upper extremity orthotics

Background:

• Traditional triangular bandages offer basic arm support but have limitations.
• Existing orthoses may cause discomfort (e.g., neck pain) and restrict necessary movement.
• Need for improved immobilization and suspension devices for shoulder and arm injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To redesign a functional arm sling orthosis for enhanced comfort, stability, and therapeutic potential.
• To optimize shoulder joint positioning for improved scapulohumeral conformity and rotator cuff function.
• To facilitate early range-of-motion exercises while maintaining effective arm suspension.

Main Methods:

• Iterative design modifications of a triangular bandage-based arm sling.
• Phase 1: Adjusted shoulder internal rotation to 30 degrees (Kapandji's reference position).
• Phase 2-5: Re-positioned sling knot, incorporated elbow pads/straps, redesigned shoulder straps, and added axillary straps for secure fit and stability.

Main Results:

• The modified orthosis allows partial hand use and avoids neck pain by repositioning the sling.
• Improved scapulohumeral joint conformity and rotator cuff equilibrium achieved through 30-degree internal rotation.
• Suspension from the ipsilateral shoulder reduces load on rotator cuff muscles.
• Enabled anterior-posterior pendulum motion for trunk stabilization and early range-of-motion training.

Conclusions:

• The evolved arm sling functions as both an effective immobilization and suspension device.
• The redesigned orthosis offers superior comfort, stability, and therapeutic benefits compared to basic slings.
• This improved orthosis supports rehabilitation by allowing controlled movement and reducing muscle strain.