Short-Stretch vs Long-Stretch Bandages – Which Option is Best for You

1. Short-Stretch vs Long-Stretch Bandages – Which Option is Best for You? It's important to use the right compression bandages to promote wound healing. Selecting the best bandaging system means understanding the basic concepts of extensibility, recoil, and working and resting pressures. ● Extensibility is how much a bandage can stretch. For instance, compression bandages with a 3-meter long compression and 100% extensibility can stretch to 6 meters. Recoil means “to regain.” Once you stretch a bandage and release the tension, it should return to its initial length. You can determine the quality of the bandage by its recoil--all high-quality bandages will snap back into place. Working pressure refers to the bandage pressure on the limb when the individual is actively using that limb, such as when standing or walking. Resting pressure is the pressure of the bandage on the limb when it is inactive, such as when sitting or lying down. ● ● ● There are two types of compression bandages: long stretch and short stretch. ● Long-stretch bandages, or elastic bandages, are stretchy and contain yarns that allow them to return to their original shape. They're easy to apply and will conform to the contour of the body. Short-stretch bandages, also called low-elasticity bandages, are made of cotton fibers interwoven so they can be stretched to almost 60% of their original length. The main advantage of short-stretch bandages is that they provide high working pressure, which is necessary for both venous flow and lymphatic drainage. ● Short-stretch bandages are made out of 100% breathable cotton. The way they are woven causes interlocking of the fibers and results in a higher compression. Thus they are more effective for achieving a higher working pressure. Often, short-stretch bandages are used in patients with vascular insufficiency because they encourage blood and lymph flow towards the heart. Because they are reusable and easily washable, they also end up being quite economical for people suffering from venous edema, lymphedema, post-traumatic swelling, etc. Meanwhile, long-stretch bandages work by gradually stretching as more swelling develops. They are very stretchy (high extensibility) and return to their original shape well (high recoil). Long-stretch bandages are most commonly used to treat sprains by providing support and relief to tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Which one should I choose? After discussing your injury with you, the doctor will help you choose an appropriate bandage and make sure it is applied correctly. The doctor will also tell you how to take care of your bandages properly. Important note: Don't start compression therapy without discussing it with your physician. Get a clinical assessment done before you start bandaging. Compression therapy is not

2. recommended for people with certain diseases and conditions, so it would be best to ensure that you do not fall into any of these categories. Once you have your doctor’s go signal, you can start shopping for compression wraps and compression bandages online at Lymphedemaproducts.com. For over two decades, we have been the exclusive supplier of lymphedema treatment supplies. We only carry products that are advanced and medically responsible for safe management of primary and secondary lymphedema, venous edema, and other edemas.