Complete Decongestive Therapy
Type of Bandages that are Used
It is super important to understand that the type of bandages used are NOT “ACE Bandages.” They are called Short Stretch Bandages. You can find Short Stretch Bandages on Amazon Here.
Note that they come in multiple widths. Smaller widths (4 cm) are typically used for the hands and feet. Larger widths are used as bandaging progresses up the limb (8-12 cm at the top of the limb).
Although they look similar, there are several key differences:
- Short Stretch Bandages are cotton elastic and do not contain latex or rubber.
- Ace Bandages do contain rubber or latex.
- Ace Bandages do contain rubber or latex.
- Short Stretch Bandages, when applied correctly, are safe for use overnight because they do not have a high resting pressure. This means that when you rest, the bandage is not at risk of causing a tourniquet on your limb. They achieve their best results when you are moving and your muscles are causing pressure against the bandaging.
- Ace Bandages have a high resting pressure which means that they become tightest when you are at rest. This can cause a tourniquet and *worsen* the lymphedema. Additionally, they have a low working pressure, meaning that as you move, they stretch with you and do not do an effective job at compressing the limb. This compression is the key to moving fluid.
Alternatives to Short Stretch Bandaging – Velcro Wraps
For several reasons it is not always possible for people to use short stretch bandaging as a method to reduce their lymphedema.
In these cases, and also as a strategy for long-term management, there are velcro wraps that have been designed to achieve a similar result. There are variations in these wraps from one manufacturer to the next. My personal preference is the Juzo brand because they do not stretch. This helps ensure that a person doesn’t over-tighten some areas of the bandage while under tightening other areas. I also like the fact that there are fewer straps to manage.
Here are a few examples and links to Amazon where you can buy these types of wraps.