Compression and Elastic Bandages, Stretch Bandages, Wound Dressings

What is an Elastic Bandage?

An elastic bandage, also called a compression bandage, is a stretchable bandage which is available in a variety of sizes. It can be employed to limit blood flow to a wounded area, or to hold a splint securely on the body by wrapping it multiple times around the area for compression. Metal clips or Velcro are then typically used to hold the bandage in place to prevent it from slipping off the desired location. When applying any type of elastic bandage, the key is to wrap it tight enough to achieve the desired pressure while avoiding cutting off the circulation altogether.

Most elastic bandages are composed of varying levels of polyester, cotton, and elastic yarn. The amount of each material in the bandage determines how much compression and stretch it will provide. There are many grades of bandages, from simple, everyday use to levels of compression needed by paramedics, surgeons, or other emergency personnel such as police departments. These bandages are also commonly found in most first aid kits. When wrapping with an elastic bandage, it is advised that it overlaps one-half to one-third of its width each time it is wound around the affected area. This creates a more even pressure across the region, and allows for a buffer zone on each side of the wound site.

Another type of elastic bandage is a compression stockinette. This type is a tubular pressure bandage which supports the tissues all the way around an extremity to treat sprains, strains, edema, post burn scarring, and rib cage injuries. It self-adjusts to provide consistent pressure over body contouring to help control swelling. A compression stockinette also secures bandages, or is placed under orthoses for added compression, protection, and padding.

A finger sleeve offers even compression to the entire finger, and helps to control hypertrophic edema and scarring. It provides pressure from the base of the finger to the tip, and is available in a variety of sizes for optimal fit and comfort. Its length can also be cut in order to provide complete coverage of the entire digit.

What is an Elastic Adhesive Bandage?

An elastic adhesive bandage is a bandage made of flexible fabric which is elasticized and designed to cling to itself. It is most often applied for compression on strains, sprains, and contusions to reduce internal bleeding and limit swelling. It can also be utilized to secure heat packs or ice packs on an injured body part. Its adhesive quality normally makes it easy to work with, and will remain securely in place without shifting or loosening. An adhesive bandage’s removal is simple and painless since it clings to itself and not to skin and hair.

This type of bandage is usually made of stretch rayon and nylon, and some have a cotton backing for added comfort. To give it elasticity, most bandages contain latex, but there are latex-free varieties available. Generally, an elastic adhesive bandage is also washable and reusable. There is a wide variety of widths to choose from, and various sizes for different body areas. Since athletes use this type of bandage often, it is available in a range of colors so it will coordinate with the uniforms.

When bandaging an area, care must be taken to not apply it so tightly that it inhibits the flow of blood. It should be tight enough in order to decrease swelling, but not so tight it cuts off circulation. Since this type of bandage does not loosen up over time, it is important to apply it correctly the first time. If there will be hollow areas under a bandage, a washcloth or sock can be added to fill in that area before the bandage is wrapped. To apply the bandage, begin to wrap from beneath the injured area and work your way up. Regularly check for signs if the bandage is too tight, such as tingling, loss of feeling, feels cold, or turns bluish. If this happens, it typically needs to be adjusted.

Rehabmart is proud to carry a comprehensive selection of superior quality compression bandages from well-known and experienced vendors comprising North Coast, Independence Medical, United Surgical, Patterson Medical, BSN Medical, McKesson Medical-Surgical, Medline, Advanced Orthopedics, Kinship Comfort Brands, Expand-A-Band, Chattanooga, and others.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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