Compression Bandages / Adhesive & Tubular Dressings

A compression bandage is an elastic bandage designed to reduce pain and swelling after a limb is strained or sprained. This is done by creating even, localized pressure on the tissue surrounding the injury to restrict the blood flow to the area. Healthcare professionals may use compression bandages when treating bone fractures. There are other uses for elastic bandages, also called Ace bandages, such as holding bandages or hot and cold packs on an injury.

The Unna boot dressing, named after a dermatologist named Paul Gerson Unna (1850-1929), is another type of compression dressing used either to treat venous stasis ulcers and other leg venous insufficiencies, or as a support bandage for lower leg strains and sprains. Many use Unna boots for edema and sore treatment, and in general, wounds with low to moderate exudate. This specialized gauze bandage is impregnated with a thick layer of cream that promotes healing. Unna boot wraps contain zinc, which eases skin irritation and helps keeps the area moist, making this product ideal for healing burns and ulcers. You may also want to consider an Unna boot with calamine, which can reduce pain, itching and irritation in the area of the wound.

For minor cuts and wounds, an adhesive bandage can be useful to apply wound dressings as well as stop the flow of blood and other bodily fluids. We also carry bandages with child-friendly prints, such as Sesame Street characters, to turn those little frowns upside-down.

A tubular bandage has a circular weave and is applied with an applicator. Also known as a tube bandage, these bandages hold bandages and splints in place, provide support to sprained limbs, and inhibit bleeding.

Another medical bandage option are conforming bandages, which have a one way stretch with memory, also known as stretch memory, designed to accommodate swelling.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your options, please give us a call and we’ll be glad to assist you with your purchase.