Description
1. General Description
The Tynor Pouch Arm Sling (Tropical) is a specialized orthopedic support designed to support, immobilize, and elevate the fractured, sprained, or operated arm while ensuring maximum comfort in hot and humid (tropical) environments. It holds the arm in a flexed position, alleviating the weight and strain on the elbow, wrist, and shoulder joints, and is an ideal support device after the removal of a cast.
2. Manufacturing Details
Tynor manufactures this sling with a primary focus on superior ventilation and light weight. The construction consists of a broad, deep pouch for the forearm and a non-elastic shoulder strap. The material used for the pouch is specifically chosen to be highly porous, promoting airflow and preventing the build-up of heat and sweat, which can lead to skin irritation during extended wear in warm climates.
3. Material Details
- Pouch Material: Constructed from lightweight, highly breathable, and soft fabric—often a netted or perforated mesh material. This “tropical” design maximizes air circulation.
- Shoulder Strap: Features a durable, non-elastic webbing strap that goes over the shoulder for stable suspension.
- Padding: The shoulder strap is typically fitted with a soft, padded sleeve to cushion the neck and shoulder area, reducing pressure from the strap.
- Fasteners: Utilizes secure, easy-to-use buckles or hook-and-loop (Velcro) fasteners for length adjustment.
4. Usability
The Pouch Arm Sling is used to maintain the forearm in a position of rest and elevation, typically with the elbow flexed at 90∘ and the hand slightly elevated to aid venous return. The user places the forearm into the pouch, and the sling is secured by routing the strap over the opposite shoulder. The length of the strap is adjusted using the buckle to achieve the desired height and angle, ensuring the strap padding rests comfortably on the neck/shoulder.
5. Precautions
- Circulation Check: Ensure the sling is adjusted so that the arm is supported comfortably without restricting blood circulation. Check the fingers regularly for any signs of swelling or numbness.
- Medical Guidance: Always use the sling under the guidance of a physician to ensure the arm is positioned at the correct angle for the specific injury.
- Immobilization: The sling should be fitted snugly enough to prevent the arm from falling out, especially during sleep or light activity.
- Hygiene: The breathable material, while preventing sweat, still requires occasional cleaning; hand wash with mild soap and air dry to maintain hygiene.
6. Key Features and Benefits
- Excellent Ventilation (Tropical): The key feature is the highly breathable fabric, which prevents heat and moisture build-up, making it extremely comfortable for use in hot, humid climates.
- Adjustable and Comfortable Strap: The broad strap, often with a cushioned sleeve, evenly distributes the weight of the arm across the shoulder and neck.
- Thumb Loop: Often includes a small thumb loop inside the pouch to help keep the hand in the correct position and prevent the wrist from dropping.
- Easy Application: The design allows for quick and easy donning and doffing with one hand.
- Universal Sizing: Often designed to fit both the left and right arms.
7. Additional Details
- Sizing: Available in sizes (e.g., S, M, L, XL) determined by measuring the length of the forearm, from the elbow to the base of the little finger.
- Color: Typically available in neutral colors like black or blue.
- Intended Use: Best suited for conditions where complete immobilization is needed, such as fractures of the humerus, radius, or ulna (after casting), shoulder subluxation, or elbow injuries.
