The following provides insight into the various forms, types and styles of bandages. In addition, their structure and functioning, as well as the medical and health benefits are discussed.
What is a bandage?
Bandages are made for various parts of the body and are primarily used to support joints. The foreign word bandage, which is based on the French word “bandage” and can be translated into German as the word “connect”, is used to describe various types of fabric pieces that, due to a high proportion of elastane, are well suited to wrap around injured parts of the body, primarily joints, to support and protect them from contamination. Of great importance with this type of protection is that the affected part of the body is wrapped but not completely immobilized and the patient can move almost completely normally. In addition, these soft bandages are known by the German name Stütz- or Schutzverband and can also be used both for pre-existing joint problems and prophylactically to prevent injuries, for example during sports activities to protect joints and bones.
Forms, types and styles
Since different parts of the body always need different types of bandages to heal optimally, there are numerous types of bandages on the market for different parts of the body. As one of the most sold types of bandages can be called the knee bandage, which can be especially helpful in sports and everyday life and counteract the stress, especially in the knee area. The ankle bandage, which is mostly sold in one size, is also hard to imagine life without, especially for athletes. For people who have spinal problems or suffer from abdominal muscle weakness, a support bandage, also called a hydas, is recommended, similar to patients who have had abdominal or back surgery. A lumbar bandage that specifically supports the back can help prevent back pain and trunk muscle weakness or reduce discomfort in this area.
Structure, function and mode of action
Most types of bandages are first used for an acute injury or joint discomfort. However, many patients continue to wear the stabilizing bandage after the condition has healed, as long as they feel high levels of stress. Many of these support bandages have an elastic knit that runs circularly around the affected area and therefore has a compressive effect. Silicone peletons or stabilizing annular springs are often incorporated into the material to give the bandage additional stability. In addition, there are forms, such as the knee bandage, which are pulled over the affected area in one piece. Such supports are usually offered in different sizes, so that every patient can get optimum support from his support. Furthermore, there are types that have a Velcro fastener so that the bandage can be conveniently opened when it is put on. In addition, the Velcro closure is convenient for compensating for various differences in the patient’s girth and ensuring optimal comfort. Most bandages also have colored sections, mostly circular or oval, so that it is possible even for a layman to independently position the bandage in the predicted location.
Medical and health benefits
The relief of joint diseases by means of the bandage therapy method is, according to studies, very effective; athletes in particular appreciate this support bandage as a useful tool to compensate for stresses. This bandage can also be worn during team sports without any problems and thus prevents injuries. The versatile support bandages are also of great medical benefit. They achieve the necessary joint stability, relieve affected parts of the body and protect muscles and tissue. In terms of the human musculoskeletal system, the bandage can also help to facilitate and even, in the long term, improve movement. A support bandage can also be used to heal sprains, strains or torn ligaments, as it can immobilize muscles and joints. This bandage should also not be underestimated in terms of pain relief.The circular knit structure promotes blood circulation and often has a massaging effect. Ultimately, however, it should be noted that in order to choose the right type of bandage, it is essential to consult a doctor or professional so that they can fit the right bandage to suit the injury.
