Elastic Bandages

Elastic Bandages

Elastic bandages come in handy when you have an injury, such as a sprain or strain. These injuries often need the extra support, compression and protection an elastic bandage offers. Elastic bandages are designed to wrap snugly around an injured area for support, apply gentle pressure and still allow the area to breathe. At Walgreens, we offer a full collection of elastic bandages from top brands like Ace to meet the needs of you and your family.

Elastic Bandages for Support and Compression

Elastic bandages are available in a mixture of cotton and polyester combined with synthetic rubber. This combination of fabrics increases the bandage's elasticity so it wraps snugly around an injured limb or area that needs support and compression. The material is designed to hold up to washings and repeated use. Some are specially treated with a substance that prevents the growth of bacteria that cause odor.

How to Adjust Bandage Length

It's simple to cut the elastic bandage to the length you need to cover an area of the body whether it's an injured foot or an injured chest. Elastic bandages are available with easy-to-use closures including clips, hook and loop closures and self-closures that hold together without an attachment. Need guidance on how much elastic bandage to use? Elastic bandage sets come with complete instructions and many include guidelines on how much to cut to cover a particular area of the body.

Elastic bandages come in several widths from 2 inches to 6 inches. Two inch widths are ideal for smaller body parts like wrists, hands and feet while 6 inch widths are made to wrap around a larger area like the chest. The instructions on the package will tell you the width of the elastic bandage and often what body parts it's best used for. Reading the instructions will help you make the best selection for your needs.

Latex Free Bandages

Do you or someone in your family have a latex allergy? Available are elastic bandages made of latex-free elastic that are safe for people who suffer from allergies to latex. Be sure to read the description carefully to make sure a bandage is latex free.

Maximum Support Bandages

If you're athletic or very active, you need an elastic bandage that offers maximum support. Some elastic bandages are specially designed for active people. These bandages provide firm, comfortable support for strains and sprains without feeling overly constrictive even when you're exercising. Some have self-adhering closures that don't require metal clips or hooks.

When to See a Doctor

Elastic bandages provide firm, comfortable support when support is warranted or recommended by your doctor. Always see your doctor or health care provider if you have severe pain or suspect you have a more serious injury and if the swelling doesn't go away in a few days.