How To Apply a Shoulder Sling and Swathe By Miranda Lewis, MD, University of Washington Reviewed / Revised Jul 2021 | Modified Sep 2022 View Patient Education Indications Contraindications Complications Equipment Additional Considerations Positioning Step-by-Step Description of Procedure Warnings and Common Errors Aftercare Tips and Tricks Topic Resources Sling and swathe How To Apply a Shoulder Sling... A shoulder sling and swathe are used to both support the arm and immobilize the shoulder.