Medical bandage: what it is, types, how to wear it

A bandage is a medical device that holds the body parts in the correct position according to physiology. Its design removes the compression load from the muscles and internal organs. Consider the types of medical bandages and how to wear them.

Types of medical bandages

Medical bandages differ depending on the place of their fixation on the human body:

• An inguinal bandage is worn in the groin area to prevent or treat various types of hernias.
• An umbilical bandage for children is made of an elastic bandage. It is fixed on the child's waist with a Velcro fastener. Its purpose is to create a certain pressure on the navel area. The umbilical bandage can be used for hernia of the navel in newborns.
• The umbilical hernia bandage for adults also consists of elastic material. It is wide, with stiffening ribs. The design is fastened with Velcro fasteners. The bandage is worn to prevent the appearance of a hernia, when it is necessary to lift heavy things or there is another load.
• Hernia bandage for women is made in the form of underpants. It is used when the uterus or other internal organs are lowered. The semi-rigid design reduces pain and lifts the organs into the correct position.
• Male hernia bandage is made in the form of a wide belt, which is fixed between the legs with special clasps. It is worn to prevent the formation of hernias during physical exertion, as well as in the existing pathology.
• Chest bandage is worn if diagnosed with intercostal neuralgia, myositis. It fixes the chest after surgery. Chest bandage reduces pain and the risk of postoperative hernias. There are female and male models.
• Prenatal and postpartum female bandages are worn to support the abdomen in late pregnancy. It promotes the correct position of the baby in the uterus, reduces the likelihood of stretch marks on the skin. It is made in the form of panties with an exaggerated waist with elastic fixation.
• Orthopedic bandages come for different joints of the body in the arms and legs. Their design restricts the movement of the limb, supports soft tissues.
• Bandage for patients after bowel surgery and stoma withdrawal supports the tissues of the abdominal wall, promotes faster healing of the suture and reduces pain.

How to wear a bandage

Medical bandages are used only when prescribed by a doctor. He determines the appropriate size, elasticity, method of fixation. Some bandages are worn on the naked body, some on underwear. The product is used in accordance with the instructions.

The bandage for the abdomen is worn lying on the back. It is wrapped around the body and fastened in the front with Velcro. The fixing element is placed in the area of the injury or postoperative suture. The bandage is removed only at night. Immediately after surgery, it is worn for a few days for the entire waking period. On the doctor's recommendation, the bandage is gradually switched to temporary use, especially during physical activity.