Recovering from a broken humerus requires consistent and comfortable immobilization to ensure the bone heals correctly. The right arm sling is not just a medical device; it’s a crucial part of your daily life during recovery, providing the support needed to minimize pain and prevent further injury. With numerous options available, selecting the best one can feel overwhelming.
This roundup simplifies your search by reviewing ten of the leading arm slings designed for humerus fractures and related shoulder injuries. We have evaluated each product based on key factors like comfort, adjustability, breathability, and specialized design features to help you find the ideal support for your healing journey.
Leading Arm Slings for Humerus Fracture Recovery
- Velpeau Arm Sling Shoulder Immobilizer for Women and Men
- Vive Arm Sling Shoulder Immobilizer for Left or Right Arm
- Comforband Arm Sling – Lightweight & Breathable Medical Sling
- Velpeau Arm Sling for Sleep, Shoulder Immobilizer
- VISKONDA Arm Sling Shoulder Immobilizer-Rotator Cuff Support Brace
- Breg Deluxe Shoulder Immobilizer Universal
- Breg Shoulder Abduction Pillow
- DonJoy 11-0449-4-06000 Ultra Sling II Shoulder Immobilizer
- Sarmiento Brace – Humeral Shaft Fracture Splint
- Ossur Formfit Arm Sling
Velpeau Arm Sling Shoulder Immobilizer for Women and Men
This Velpeau sling stands out with its innovative T-belt design, which wraps securely around the waist to hold the arm close to the body and prevent swinging. This feature is particularly beneficial for stabilizing the shoulder after a humerus injury. The sling is constructed without neoprene or latex, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin as it avoids odor and irritation.
Comfort is a priority with the sponge-filled shoulder strap, designed to eliminate the feeling of strangulation on the neck. This padding helps maintain proper blood circulation and reduces pressure on the shoulders and neck during extended wear. It is available in a wide range of sizes, ensuring a proper and secure fit for a diverse user base.
Vive Arm Sling Shoulder Immobilizer for Left or Right Arm
Vive’s arm sling is engineered for ergonomic support, evenly distributing the weight of the arm to reduce pain and eliminate pressure points. Its design minimizes movement to aid recovery from a broken humerus. The integrated thumb loop helps reduce hand fatigue, while the reversible design makes it suitable for use on either the left or right arm.
Constructed from a lightweight and breathable material, this sling remains cool and comfortable for all-day wear. The generously padded shoulder strap is adjustable and contours comfortably to the body. A forward-facing slide buckle allows for easy one-handed adjustments, adding to the overall convenience of this durable, machine-washable sling.
Comforband Arm Sling – Lightweight & Breathable Medical Sling
The Comforband sling prioritizes comfort with soft, skin-friendly materials and a cushy foam-padded shoulder strap that prevents digging into the neck. Its ergonomic design includes a foam wrist-lifting cushion and a stretchy cotton arm pouch to support the injured arm snugly. This thoughtful construction helps manage the discomfort associated with a humerus fracture.
Breathability is a key feature, with a mesh panel in the forearm area to enhance ventilation. This helps keep the skin cool and dry, which is especially important during longer periods of wear. As a one-size-fits-most option, it is crucial to consult the provided size chart and measure your forearm length to ensure a proper and effective fit.
Velpeau Arm Sling for Sleep, Shoulder Immobilizer
Specifically designed for comfort during rest, this Velpeau sling is exceptionally light and soft, constructed entirely from sponge and skin-friendly cloth without any hard plastics or metals. Its lightweight nature and breathable, hole-punched fabric make it a standout choice for overnight wear, providing stability without sacrificing comfort.
The sling is easy to put on and adjust with high-tack hook and loop fasteners, allowing for quick tightness adjustments. The sponge-filled construction and widened chest straps work together to reduce pressure on the neck and shoulders while preventing the arm from swinging. The upper back cross design also helps balance the shoulders and reduce slipping.
VISKONDA Arm Sling Shoulder Immobilizer-Rotator Cuff Support Brace
The VISKONDA sling is made from a high-quality, skin-friendly sandwich mesh that is both lightweight and breathable. This material promotes air circulation and wicks away sweat, keeping the wearer comfortable and free from stuffiness. This feature is appreciated for use during sleep, travel, or work.
Its unique design includes a buckle on the shoulder strap, a fixed strap for the arm pocket, and two small storage pockets for convenience. The entire shoulder strap is filled with sponge and includes a thickened, movable shoulder pad to enhance comfort. This padding helps prevent the sling from cutting off circulation, making it suitable for long-term wear.
Breg Deluxe Shoulder Immobilizer Universal
The Breg Deluxe Shoulder Immobilizer features a universal design that can be folded to the proper length to accommodate a wide range of patients. Its closed pocket design and large hook and loop contact patch work together to provide secure immobilization, which is essential for healing a broken humerus.
Constructed from a breathable cotton material, this sling offers comfort for extended use. The ultra-soft straps are designed to be gentle on the skin, and the system allows for adjustments from both the front and rear. This adjustability ensures that users can achieve a customized and secure fit for optimal support.
Breg Shoulder Abduction Pillow
For more complex shoulder and humeral injuries requiring a specific arm position, the Breg Shoulder Abduction Pillow is a specialized solution. It is universally sized and features an inflatable bladder that allows for precise abduction adjustment between 10 and 75 degrees, as directed by a medical professional.
This device is crucial for limiting the posterior shift of the shoulder, promoting proper healing alignment after surgery or severe fractures. Unlike a standard sling, this abduction pillow maintains the arm in a raised position, which can be necessary for certain post-operative protocols and injury types.
DonJoy Ultra Sling II Shoulder Immobilizer
The DonJoy Ultra Sling II is a professional-grade healthcare product designed for effective shoulder immobilization. It is built to provide robust support for serious injuries, including fractures of the humerus. This sling is recognized for its durable construction and reliable performance in clinical settings.
Available in multiple sizes, including this Large option, it is engineered to offer a secure and comfortable fit. As a product from a trusted medical brand, it is designed to meet the needs of patients requiring strict immobilization during their recovery process, ensuring the injured area remains stable.
Sarmiento Brace – Humeral Shaft Fracture Splint
This Sarmiento Brace is a specialized device designed specifically for humeral shaft fractures. It provides strong fixation for the upper arm using a breathable and lightweight PP material. Its primary function is to support the long bone of the humerus, making it a direct solution for certain types of humerus breaks.
The brace features an upgraded design with a comfortable shoulder strap that has an improved fixed angle to prevent sliding. It is indicated for shoulder dislocation and post-operative fixation of humeral fractures, often used in conjunction with other casting or as a standalone support during later stages of healing.
Ossur Formfit Arm Sling
Ossur is a leading brand in the non-invasive orthopedics market, and its Formfit Arm Sling is designed with a focus on quality and patient comfort. These slings typically feature contoured, form-fitting designs that provide secure support while being comfortable to wear for extended periods, which is vital for humerus fracture recovery.
While specific features for this model should be confirmed on the product page, Ossur products are generally known for their durable materials and thoughtful ergonomics. The brand’s reputation for creating effective rehabilitation products makes this sling a option worth considering for those seeking a reliable support system from a trusted manufacturer.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Arm Sling for a Broken Humerus
When I broke my humerus, I quickly learned that not all arm slings are created equal. Your humerus is the long bone in your upper arm, and a fracture there needs serious support and immobilization to heal correctly. Choosing the right sling isn’t just about comfort; it’s about ensuring your bone recovers properly. Here’s what I found to be most important when you’re looking for the best arm slings for a broken humerus.
First, consider the type of support. A standard cuff-and-collar sling is common, but for a humerus break, you often need more. Look for a humeral fracture orthosis or an arm immobilizer. These designs typically include a strap that goes around your waist or chest, which stops your arm from swinging and puts less strain on the fracture site. This extra stability was a game-changer for me, as it prevented those painful, unexpected jolts.
Next, think about adjustability. Swelling can fluctuate, especially in the first few days and weeks. A sling with multiple points of adjustment—like on the cuff, the strap across your back, and any stabilizing strap—allows you to fine-tune the fit for optimal support and comfort. Velcro closures are your friend here, as they are easy to manage with one hand.
Material and padding are huge for long-term wear. You’ll be living in this thing for weeks. A breathable, moisture-wicking fabric helps prevent skin irritation and keeps you cooler. Look for generous padding on the shoulder strap and around the neck cuff. My first sling had thin padding, and the chafing was almost as bad as the break itself. A well-padded cuff can also help distribute the weight of your arm more evenly.
Finally, don’t forget about practical features. Is there a pocket for a small ice pack? Can you wash it? Is it available in a color you don’t mind looking at every day? While your doctor’s recommendation is paramount, these factors will make your recovery period much more manageable. Taking the time to find a sling that offers robust support, comfort, and adjustability will make a world of difference in your healing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I need to wear an arm sling for a broken humerus?
This really depends on the severity and location of your fracture, as well as your own body’s healing speed. For a standard, non-displaced fracture, you might be in a sling for about 4 to 6 weeks. More complex breaks could require a longer period of immobilization, sometimes up to 12 weeks or more. Your orthopedic doctor will take follow-up X-rays to monitor the bone’s progress and give you a more precise timeline. It’s super important not to stop using the sling before you get the all-clear, even if you start to feel better.
Can I sleep with my arm sling on?
Yes, and you absolutely should. Keeping your arm immobilized at night is crucial because you can’t control your movements while you’re asleep. Twisting or rolling onto your injured arm could re-injure the fracture. I found it most comfortable to sleep on my back or propped up on a few pillows. Some people also find it helpful to place a pillow under their injured arm for extra support while lying down.
What’s the difference between a sling and a shoulder immobilizer?
A basic sling mainly supports the forearm and wrist, taking weight off the shoulder. A shoulder immobilizer, which is often recommended for a broken humerus, does much more. It typically has an additional strap that goes around your waist or chest. This strap holds your upper arm snugly against your body, preventing the shoulder from moving and providing much better stabilization for the humerus bone itself. It’s a more comprehensive solution for upper arm injuries.
How tight should my arm sling be?
It should be snug and supportive, but not so tight that it cuts off your circulation or causes numbness or tingling in your hand. You should be able to slide a finger or two comfortably between the straps and your skin. A good rule of thumb is that the sling should hold your forearm parallel to the ground, with your hand positioned higher than your elbow. If you notice your fingers swelling or changing color, the sling is likely too tight and needs to be loosened.
Are there any exercises I can do while wearing the sling?
It’s essential to keep your hand, wrist, and fingers moving to prevent stiffness. Your doctor will likely recommend simple exercises like making a fist, spreading your fingers wide, and gently bending your wrist up and down. However, you must avoid moving your elbow or shoulder until your doctor gives you specific instructions to do so. Following their guidance on these exercises is a key part of selecting from the 10 best arm slings for a broken humerus, as the right sling will allow for this necessary hand movement while keeping the main injury completely still.