Elastic bandage

An Ace Bandage

An elastic bandage (often marketed as a propriety eponym "Ace bandage") is a "stretchable bandage used to create localized pressure". Elastic bandages are commonly used to treat muscle sprains and strains by reducing the flow of blood to a particular area by the application of even stable pressure which can restrict swelling at the place of injury. Elastic bandages are also used to treat bone fractures. Padding is applied to the fractured limb, then a splint (usual plaster) is applied. The elastic bandage is then applied to hold the splint in place and to protect it. This is a common technique for fractures that may swell, which would cause a cast to function improperly. These types of splints are usually removed after swelling has decreased and then a fiberglass or plaster cast can be applied.

Due to the risk of latex allergies among users, the original composition of elastic bandages has changed. While some bandages are still manufactured with latex, many woven and knitted elastic bandages provide adequate compression without the use of natural rubber or latex. The modern elastic bandage is constructed from cotton, polyester, and latex-free elastic yarns. By varying the ratio of cotton, polyester, and elastic yarns within a bandage, manufacturers can offer various grades of compression and durability in their wraps. Often aluminum or stretchable clips are used to fasten the bandage in place once it has been wrapped around the injury. Some elastic bandages even use Velcro closures to secure and stabilize the wrap in place.

Aside from use in sports medicine and by orthopedists, elastic bandages are popular in treating lymphedema and other venous conditions. However, some compression wraps are inadequate for treating lymphedema or chronic venous insufficiency. They provide a high resting compression and low active compression. More appropriate use for compression in treating lymphedema or other edema conditions would be TG shapes, tensoshapes, compression socks or compression wraps for acute conditions or exacerbation. Physical therapists and occupational therapists have special training and certifications to apply appropriate compression wraps for edema and lymphedema. Elastic bandages can also be used for weight loss when applied as a body wrap (Vet wrap, etc.) and rehabilitating injured animals through veterinary medicine.

Elastic bandages should not be confused with compression therapy devices designed for the purpose of venous edema management or lymphedema management. Such devices are specifically designed to deliver graduated compression from the ankle to the knee to assist with venous return.

First Aid usage

In mass trauma, battlefield, and/or burn situations, elastic bandages are often used to hold large gauze bandages in place. They may also used to temporarily immobilize or support fractures.

In BDSM

Ace bandages are very vrsatile in BDSM play. They may be used as a restraint device, used in mummification, blindfolds or in medical play.

• Example of Ace bandage usage
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See also [ Candy and The Hyatt Regency ]

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