Are short stretch bandages safe?
Bandages that are applied at full stretch are less likely to overcompress the limb. “Long stretch bandages because of their elasticity, can be overstretched during application resulting in greater sub bandage pressures, precipitating ischaemia and worsening of the ulcer ( Raj et al., 1980)” Ref: Krishnamoorthy, L; Melhuish, J; (2000), Short Stretch Compression Bandaging, Journal of Community Nursing, September 2000, Vol.14; Iss.9; 29-37 Ref: Raj, TB, Goddard,M; Makin,GS; ( 1980); How do compression bandages maintain their pressure during ambulatory treatment of varicose veins?”, British Journal of Surgery, 67;122-124 “Elastic bandages with a high recoiling force e.g. long stretch and the 4LB system, can cause ischaemic pain if applied too strongly, whilst rigid, inelastic material exerts a much lesser resting pressure” Ref: Tuckwood-Smith, J ( 1996); Which compression therapy, Journal of Community Nursing, Nov. Vol. 10; Iss.
