3 Ways To Apply Shoulder Injury Compression Wraps - WikiHow

Home » How To Wrap A Shoulder » 3 Ways To Apply Shoulder Injury Compression Wraps - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Apply Shoulder Injury Compression Wraps PDF download Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Applying a Shoulder Compression Wrap 2 Stabilizing the Shoulder and Reducing Swelling 3 When to Get Professional Attention Other Sections FAQ Tips and Warnings Things You'll Need Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD

Last Updated: April 15, 2025 Approved

PDF download Download Article X

This article was co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD. Dr. Jonathan Frank is an Orthopedic Surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in sports medicine and joint preservation. Dr. Frank's practice focuses on minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, hip, and elbow. Dr. Frank holds an MD from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He completed an orthopedic residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and a fellowship in Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Hip Preservation at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. He is a staff team physician for the US Ski and Snowboard Team. Dr. Frank is currently a scientific reviewer for top peer-reviewed scientific journals, and his research has been presented at regional, national, and international orthopedic conferences, winning several awards including the prestigious Mark Coventry and William A Grana awards. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 93% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 218,994 times.

Compression wraps are recommended for non-serious shoulder injuries. Wrapping the shoulder in a compression bandage may help it heal by promoting blood flow, which allows nutrients vital to recovery to access damaged tissues effectively, and maintains cell health during regeneration. Compression wraps also help prevent further injury by immobilizing the shoulder. To wrap your shoulder, simply wrap your compression bandage backward around your shoulder twice and loop it down around your back and up over your chest. Then, wrap the end around your bicep several times to stabilize the wrap.

How to Wrap a Shoulder

  1. Place the end of the bandage on top of the injured shoulder.
  2. Wrap the bandage backward under the armpit twice.
  3. Loop the wrap down over your back and then up over your chest.
  4. Wrap the bandage around your bicep several times to secure it.
  5. Pin the bandage in place.

For popular FAQs on applying shoulder injury compression wraps, jump to more common questions.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Applying a Shoulder Compression Wrap

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Ensure that a compression wrap is an appropriate treatment. 1 Ensure that a compression wrap is an appropriate treatment. Tightly wrapped bandages can reduce swelling and increase circulation, but can also risk worsening an injury that should not be compressed. Shoulder injuries that typically benefit from this treatment are those caused by repetitive stress such as weight lifting, golf swings, or volleyball serves, or mild injuries experienced while playing sports or falling.
    • If you’re unsure whether a different form of treatment may be more appropriate, see the “When to Get Professional Attention” section of this article.
    • It can be difficult to wrap a shoulder because it's not good to put a lot of pressure on the armpit area. You might consider another treatment like icing the area, instead.[1]
    • Do not use a compression wrap on an injured person to try to stabilize the shoulder during transportation to the hospital.
    • If new pain or tingling occurs during the wrapping process, remove the wrap immediately and see a healthcare professional.
    • Use caution when applying compression to areas where there is severe peripheral artery disease or a severe infection. Also be aware of any allergies to certain materials, such as latex.
  2. Step 2 Procure the materials you’ll need to wrap the shoulder. 2 Procure the materials you’ll need to wrap the shoulder. You’ll need a roll of compression bandage, bandage clips or pins, and a cloth long enough to serve as a sling.
    • Wash your hands with an antibacterial soap and clean water before touching the injury or any of the medical supplies.
    • Alternatively, you can purchase premade shoulder compression wraps.[2] Many of these include built-in pockets for heating or icing implements.[3] Try on a few to ensure you find one that comfortably fits.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Wrap the shoulder tightly and carefully. 3 Wrap the shoulder tightly and carefully. Position the end of the compression bandage on top of the injured shoulder, wrapping backwards around the armpit twice. Unroll the bandage as needed, making sure to keep the end of the bandage in place on their shoulder blade.
    • As you complete the second wrap go down and across the back, beneath the other arm, and around the chest.
    • Make sure the bandage is snug but not so tight that the person cannot breathe.
  4. Step 4 Repeat the shoulder wrap. 4 Repeat the shoulder wrap. Wrap around the shoulder through the armpit again, and continue wrapping onto the bicep for added support. Ensure the wrap is snug enough to provide sufficient compression to stimulate the flow of blood to the area.[4]
  5. Step 5 Secure the end of the compression. 5 Secure the end of the compression. Finish wrapping the bandage by pinning the wrap in place where the pins will be safe and secure. At this point, you also need to ensure you have not compressed the muscle tissue too much, as this may detrimentally reduce blood flow (the opposite of what you hope the wrap will achieve).[5]
    • Any numbness indicates that you’ve the wrapped the shoulder too tightly and need to re-wrap the shoulder a bit more loosely.
    • To ensure the compression bandage is not too tight, check the circulation of the affected arm by pinching a fingertip (including the nail in the pinch) for about two seconds. After about two more seconds, the nail of the pinched finger should return to its normal pinkish color.
    • If it takes more than two seconds for the pinched nail to turn back, the blood flow may be ineffective because of a tight compression bandage. Remove and reapply the compression bandage until it is snug but not too tight.
    • If there is any pain, it should start to go down after you apply the bandage. If there is an increase in pain, then redo the wrapping.
    6. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Stabilizing the Shoulder and Reducing Swelling

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Place the arm in a sling. 1 Place the arm in a sling. Using a sling reduces movement of the arm and the injured shoulder while it heals.
    • Aside from purchasing an appropriately-sized sling, you can also make one with a meter-length cloth. Fold the cloth diagonally, arranging it into an elongated triangle that can be wrapped beneath the forearm of the injured arm and secured around the opposite shoulder.
    • Secure the injured arm at a comfortable angle across the person’s chest (roughly horizontal), with the sling’s strap over the opposite shoulder.
    • Perform this maneuver as gently as possible to avoid straining the injured arm.
  2. Step 2 Adjust the sling as needed. 2 Adjust the sling as needed.[6] It is important to make sure that the sling feels comfortable, so you may need to make some adjustments. The entire forearm up to the hand should be supported by the sling. The sling should not be too tight or placed too high up either. If the sling is too high, then you may experience discomfort and tension in your shoulder.
  3. Step 3 Ice the injured shoulder if recently injured. 3 Ice the injured shoulder if recently injured. The cold temperature will actually reduce blood flow to the injured shoulder, which can help reduce any pain and swelling following an injury. Icing with compression is more effective in reducing tissue temperature than icing alone.[7]
    • Wrap the ice pack in a towel or other cloth before wrapping it to your shoulder as directed previously, though with slightly less compression.
    • Apply the cold pack for no more than 20 minutes. For the best results, remove the cold pack after 20 minutes, let the injured area rest for 20 minutes and then reapply the cold pack for another 20 minutes.
    • If the injured shoulder becomes numb at any point, remove the cold pack and repeat the compression wrap process before re-applying the cold compress.
    • Do not apply ice directly to the surface of the skin. This can lead to an increased risk of frostbite. Always wrap the ice pack in a towel first.
  4. Step 4 Shift to a hot compress after 48 hours. 4 Shift to a hot compress after 48 hours. A hot compress will stimulate blood flow to the injured shoulder, which is vital to the recovery process. This will also relax the muscles and reduce any muscle pain. A hot compress can also improve the flexibility of the tendons and ligaments in the injured shoulder.[8]
    • Do not use a hot compress if the injured shoulder is swollen. It may cause more swelling.
    • Hot compresses are available in multiple forms. Some create warmth via electric power, while others need to be microwaved or simply shaken.
    • A rubber hot water bottle is best. Whatever you use, be careful that it does not become dangerously hot.
    • As with a cold press, wrap or hold the hot compress in some sort of cloth before bandaging it to the shoulder as previously directed, though again, with less compression than you had used without an icing or heating element.
    • Only apply a hot compress to the injured area for 20 minutes at a time.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

When to Get Professional Attention

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Seek medical attention for discoloration, numbness, or tingling. 1 Seek medical attention for discoloration, numbness, or tingling. These symptoms may indicate a serious injury that cannot be wrapped at home and must be looked at by a doctor, who may suggest other treatment options, such as surgery.
    • Bluish discoloration, numbness, tingling, prickling, stinging or any odd sensations felt in the injured shoulder likely indicate insufficient blood and oxygen supply to the area.[9] See a doctor if you experience any of these sensations.
  2. Step 2 Get medical attention for open wounds on or near your shoulder. 2 Get medical attention for open wounds on or near your shoulder. An open wound indicates significant force placed on the shoulder during a fall or accident, and you may not have recognized the internal damage to your shoulder.[10]
    • The skin may even have been punctured by a broken bone, which definitely necessitates professional medical attention.
  3. Step 3 See an orthopedic specialist to help identify a persistent shoulder injury. 3 See an orthopedic specialist to help identify a persistent shoulder injury. An orthopedic specialist can help identify the type and severity of your injury. They will also be able to provide you the best advice in terms of treatment options, including specific ways to wrap and compress a shoulder.[11]
    4. Advertisement

Common Questions: Dislocated Shoulders

Does compression help shoulder pain?

Yes, compression can alleviate shoulder pain and inflammation from injury or surgery. In fact, compression alone can reduce pain faster than an ice pack or cold pack.[12]

Do you wrap a dislocated shoulder?

Wear a sling to support the dislocated shoulder rather than wrapping it. Ice the shoulder right after the injury and do not move it until you see a doctor. Adjust the sling so your arm rests comfortably against your body. You can move your elbow and wrist while in the sling.[13]

What is the fastest way to heal a dislocated shoulder?

The healing time for a dislocated shoulder depends on the severity of the injury. To heal as fast as possible, wear your sling for the prescribed amount of time (typically 6 weeks) and do not return to strenuous activities until cleared by your doctor.[14]

Tips

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Warnings

  • Again, do not wrap, ice, or heat an injury with open wounds or stitches. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • Applying heat to an injured shoulder is not recommended for those suffering from poor circulation and diabetes. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • A compression bandage or shoulder compression strap.
  • Bandage clips or pins.
  • A sling or cloth large enough to fasten a sling.
  • Ice or ice pack.
  • A safe heating element, such as a hot water bottle.

You Might Also Like

Apply a Cold CompressHow toApply a Cold Compress Strap a Dislocated ShoulderHow toStrap a Dislocated Shoulder Fix a Dislocated ShoulderHow toFix a Dislocated Shoulder Treat a DislocationHow toTreat a Dislocation Ease Shoulder PainHow toEase Shoulder Pain Test the Effectiveness of a BandageHow toTest the Effectiveness of a Bandage Treat a Sore ShoulderHow toTreat a Sore Shoulder How toAce Wrap a Leg Wrap a WristHow toWrap a Wrist Wrap an Ankle with an ACE BandageHow toWrap an Ankle with an ACE Bandage Treat a Sprain During First AidHow to Treat a Sprained Joint During First Aid Heal a Sore ArmHow toHeal a Sore Arm Manage a Broken ArmHow toManage a Broken Arm Wrap an Achilles TendonHow toWrap an Achilles Tendon Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ Jonathan Frank, MD. Sports Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Preservation Specialist. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ https://www.mcdavidusa.com/shoulder-wrap
  3. ↑ https://www.polarproducts.com/polarshop/pc/Shoulder-Compression-Therapy-Wraps-c580.htm
  4. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20924348
  5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1192660
  6. ↑ https://www.iskinstitute.com/kc/shoulder/shoulder_dislocation/t1.html
  7. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1317720/
  8. ↑ https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/sports-wrap/ice-or-heat
  9. ↑ https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.107.763730
More References (5)
  1. ↑ https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.107.763730
  2. ↑ https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00065
  3. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25677503/
  4. ↑ https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/selfcare-instructions/dislocated-shoulder-aftercare
  5. ↑ https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/helping-athletes-with-dislocated-shoulder

About This Article

Jonathan Frank, MD Co-authored by: Jonathan Frank, MD Sports Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Preservation Specialist This article was co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD. Dr. Jonathan Frank is an Orthopedic Surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in sports medicine and joint preservation. Dr. Frank's practice focuses on minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, hip, and elbow. Dr. Frank holds an MD from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He completed an orthopedic residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and a fellowship in Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Hip Preservation at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. He is a staff team physician for the US Ski and Snowboard Team. Dr. Frank is currently a scientific reviewer for top peer-reviewed scientific journals, and his research has been presented at regional, national, and international orthopedic conferences, winning several awards including the prestigious Mark Coventry and William A Grana awards. This article has been viewed 218,994 times. 14 votes - 93% Co-authors: 11 Updated: April 15, 2025 Views: 218,994 Categories: Neck and Shoulder Health

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Read More...

Article SummaryX

To apply shoulder injury compression wraps, start by placing the end of the bandage on top of the injured shoulder. Then, wrap it backwards around the arm twice. Next, wrap the bandage around the shoulder again before wrapping it around the bicep and pinning it in place. If your shoulder feels numb, re-wrap the bandage, since numbness is a sign that it’s too tight. Additionally, remove the wrap immediately if you experience extra pain while applying it, which may indicate your injury is not appropriate for a compression wrap. For tips from our Medical co-author on how to put your arm in a sling after wrapping your shoulder, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Dutch Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 218,994 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Anonymous

    Anonymous

    May 8, 2017

    "Thanks for letting me know how to wrap it and when I should see a doctor."
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Jonathan Frank, MD Co-authored by: Jonathan Frank, MD Sports Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Preservation Specialist Co-authors: 11 Updated: April 15, 2025 Views: 218,994 93% of readers found this article helpful. 14 votes - 93% Click a star to add your vote Anonymous

Anonymous

May 8, 2017

"Thanks for letting me know how to wrap it and when I should see a doctor." Amber Kostecki

Amber Kostecki

Jan 11, 2017

"Good ideas! Thank you. I think wrapping my shoulder should help a little." Anonymous

Anonymous

May 6, 2018

"I tried the shoulder brace, it did help. Thank you." Anonymous

Anonymous

Jan 17, 2017

"It quickly teaches me what to do." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

What Are The Best Compression Socks For Me QuizWhat Are The Best Compression Socks For Me QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizDo I Have Broken Heart Syndrome QuizDo I Have Broken Heart Syndrome QuizTake QuizMental Health QuizMental Health QuizTake QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizTake QuizAm I Manipulative QuizAm I Manipulative QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Apply a Cold CompressHow toApply a Cold CompressStrap a Dislocated ShoulderHow toStrap a Dislocated ShoulderFix a Dislocated ShoulderHow toFix a Dislocated ShoulderTreat a DislocationHow toTreat a Dislocation

Featured Articles

Remove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeHow toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & Icebreakers110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?

Trending Articles

Am I Autistic QuizAm I Autistic Quiz210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-Blowing210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizGuess My Deepest Secret QuizGuess My Deepest Secret Quiz

Featured Articles

Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerWhat Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasExercise Your BrainHow toExercise Your BrainBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With

Featured Articles

What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?Develop Productive HabitsHow toDevelop Productive HabitsPractice Self CareHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?What Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureWill 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)

Watch Articles

Amazing Super Bowl Party Ideas Guests Will Cheer ForAmazing Super Bowl Party Ideas Guests Will Cheer ForDevelop Listening SkillsHow toDevelop Listening SkillsNot Lose Your GirlfriendHow toNot Lose Your Girlfriend Draw an OwlHow to Draw an OwlTreat AllergiesHow toTreat AllergiesIntroduce Friends to Other FriendsHow toIntroduce Friends to Other Friends

Trending Articles

Can We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Can We Guess If You're Single or Taken?What Would My Nickname Be QuizWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are Quiz5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your Shape5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeBe PrettyHow toBe PrettyKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect KissKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect Kiss

Quizzes & Games

Do I Need Therapy QuizDo I Need Therapy QuizTake QuizHow Awkward Am I QuizHow Awkward Am I QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?What’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizOCD TestOCD TestTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Health
  • Musculoskeletal System Health
  • Neck and Shoulder Health
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --547

Tag » How To Wrap A Shoulder