What are the Benefits of Tubular Bandages?
Tubular bandages are excellent medical tools with many beneficial features [1] [2]. Here are some of the advantages of tubular bandages. They include;
- They are easy to use: Tubular bandages are easy to put on. In contrast to traditional crepe bandages, applying these bandages is a quick and straightforward process.
- They do not require fixation: Tubular bandages, in contrast to flat bandages like crepe bandages, are meant to be put over the end of a limb to cover a dressing. They secure other wound dressings in place and do not require extra fixation with pins or tapes.
- They are cost-effective: These bandages are affordable and can be washed and reused, unlike other dressings. This makes them ideal for use in an outpatient or community setting.
Indications for Tubular Bandages
Tubular bandages are helpful for many medical conditions, including;
- Strains
- Sprains
- Soft tissue injuries
- Limb edema
- Rib injuries
- Post-burn scars
How To Use Tubular Bandages
Applying a tubular bandage is relatively easy. You only need to follow the manufacturers' instructions. Here are some steps you can follow when using these bandages.
- Choose the suitable width size of the tubular bandage based on the widest portion of the affected limb. An overly tight dressing might impede healing.
- Cut the tubular bandage to twice the length necessary for the limb, with an additional 2 to 3 centimeters for overlap.
- Measure and cut two holes for the thumb if the bandage is to be applied to the lower arm.
- To put on the tubular bandage, pull it like a stocking onto the limb.
- Pull the tubular bandage on the limb twice. Ensure that the upper margin is measured a few centimeters further up the limb than the first.
Conclusion
Tubular bandages are special medical dressings with elastic properties that stabilize injured limbs and provide uniform compression.
References
- Gleeson, A. P., Stuart, M. J., Wilson, B., & Phillips, B. (1996). Ultrasound assessment and conservative management of inversion injuries of the ankle in children: plaster of Paris versus Tubigrip. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume, 78(3), 484–487. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8636192/
- Naeem, M., Rahimnajjad, M. K., Rahimnajjad, N. A., Idrees, Z., Shah, G. A., & Abbas, G. (2015). Assessment of functional treatment versus plaster of Paris in the treatment of grade 1 and 2 lateral ankle sprains. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology: Official Journal of the Italian Society of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, 16(1), 41–46. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10195-014-0289-8