How to Wrap a Bandage

Bandages are available in different fabrics and shapes. The elasticized bandage -- sometimes referred to as an Ace bandage, compression bandage or crepe bandage -- is one of the most commonly used and simplest to apply. Usually purchased as a rolled-up length of stretchy fabric, elasticized bandages are wrapped around an injured body part to secure dressings and reduce swelling by applying compression; they also offer support in the case of joints with soft-tissue injuries -- e.g., sprained wrists or ankles.

Things You'll Need

• Elasticized bandage
• Bandage clips

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Instructions

Wrist

• 1

  Select an appropriate-sized bandage.

• 2

  Circle the wrist with the bandage twice to secure it in place, starting and finishing inside the wrist. Apply firmly for compression, but take care not to pull too tight.

• 3

  Bring the bandage roll diagonally down across the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger, and back up across the palm to the wrist.

• 4

  Bring the bandage around the wrist, a half turn to the other side.

• 5

  Bring the bandage roll down across the palm, around the outside of the little finger, and back across the back of the hand to the wrist, completing a figure-eight pattern.

• 6

  Repeat steps 2 through 4 to create a second figure-eight turn.

• 7

  Wind the bandage around the wrist in one complete turn.

• 8

  Continue to make circular turns, moving slightly up the forearm and overlapping half of the previous layer of bandage at each turn.

• 9

  Secure the end of the bandage with a bandage clip.

Ankle

• 10

  Select an appropriate-sized bandage.

• 11

  Wind the bandage around the ball of the foot at the base of the toes twice to secure it in place, circling under the foot from inside to outside. Apply firmly for compression, but take care not to pull too tight.

• 12

  Circle the foot, moving toward the ankle and overlapping half of the previous layer of bandage each turn.

• 13

  Continue to make circular, overlapping turns over the heel and ankle, then up the leg to mid-calf.

• 14

  Secure the end of the bandage with a bandage clip