Compression Bandages

Compression bandage is also known as elastic bandage. These bandages form an essential part of first aid kits and are used extensively in hospitals and medical care facilities. They can be used limit the flow of blood to a wounded area or to hold a dressing in place or can simply be used to provide compression in case of strains and sprains.

Features of Compression Bandages

• These bandages are made up of polyester, cotton and elasticated yarn. These materials are used in varying amounts to produce bandages that differ in compression and stretch. 
• Tubular compression bandages are good for edema, strains, sprains, rib cage injuries etc. These bandages are designed to provide a consistent pressure while conforming to the body contours to help control the swelling and pain.
• Tubular compression stockinettes can be used to secure bandages, for compression, protection, and padding.
• Elastic adhesive bandages are made up of flexible fabric that is designed to cling to itself and does not require any Velcro or clip to fasten. Along with regular sports injuries, strains and sprains, it can also be used for contusions to reduce internal bleeding and for limiting swelling. 
• Securing hot packs or cold packs to the skin over the injured part can be aided by adhesive elasticated bandages. They are easy to work with and cling to the body without the need for frequent adjustments. Compression bandages are also used for lymphedema control. They reduce the swelling caused due to edema.

Dos and Don'ts

• Elastic bandages should only be used up to 24-48 hours after injury. 
• You can combine rest and ice and elevation with compression for most sports injuries.
• Do combine rest and elevation with compression whenever possible.
• You should avoid applying cold packs with compression bandages to avoid frost bites. They are best applied separately.
• Avoid wrapping bandage too tightly. You do not want to block the circulation altogether. 
• Elastic bandages are not meant for support they only provide compression. In order to immobilize a wound use splints not compression bandage.

Popular compression bandages:

Compression bandages provide high resistance to stretch that is caused due to pressure from internal muscle tightening and joint movement. The elasticated bandages that are mostly referred by medical and sports professionals include Cardinal Health Self-Adherent Bandages that come in various sizes and sticks to itself for great performance or the Medline Unna-Z Unna Boot Bandages that are designed to provide light compression for venous leg ulcers. Medline Matrix Elastic Bandages provide Velcro closure mechanism and is ideal for low compression requirements.

HPFY has a vast collection of top quality compression bandages for every situation from well-known manufacturers like Lohmann & Rauscher, Medline, Bsn Medical, Covidien/Medtronic, Cardinal Health, 3m and many more..