Short stretch compression bandages are used to create the outer layer of a multi-layer compressive bandaging therapy system, which are used in the treatment of lymphedema and edema. While they might look like common "Ace" bandages that are seen at retail stores, short stretch compression bandages are much less stretchy. (read more)
Short stretch bandages are made from cotton fibers which are interwoven in a way that allows only for approximately 60% extensibility of their original length. When used as part of a multi-layer compression bandage, the "short stretch" capacity of these bandages creates an external force against outward muscle contraction (known as working pressure). Conversely, while the muscles are at rest, the pressure of the short stretch bandages is low, thereby eliminating constriction or a "tourniquet effect" which would otherwise hinder the normal flow of body fluids.
By using more compression layers further down a limb and fewer layers higher up, graded pressure is created, helping to move lymphatic fluid upward and out of an affected area. Multi-layered short stretch bandages also provide a semi-rigid barrier that helps to prevent the expansion of swelling or edema.
For lymphedema treatments, various medical foams and paddings can be used to help cushion the skin and distribute the compressive pressures created by the short stretch bandages, or to provide additional targeted pressure points when extra pressure is needed.
Our selection of short stretch compression bandages includes:
- Comprilan short stretch bandages
- Rosidal K short stretch bandages
- BiaForm short stretch bandages
- SoftCompress short stretch bandages
- LoPress short stretch bandages
- Idealbinde short stretch bandages
- Isoband short stretch bandages
- Durelast short stretch bandages
Please note that with extensibility that is greater than 140% of their original length, medium and long stretch bandages provide little resistance to muscle contraction. Because of this, these bandages stretch as edema increases, provide low pressure, and therefore do not help contain edema.
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