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Bandages Short Stretch vs Long Stretch

We all are aware that wound healing is more complicated than just wound assessment and treatment. To select the most appropriate bandaging system, one must understand the concepts of extensibility, recoil, and working and resting pressures.

Till date, little research has been done to investigate the best combinations of bandages or different bandage application techniques. We totally rely on clinical experience and tradition.

So, we thought to share some details to help you understand bandaging principles and to effectively treat and heal wounds.

  • Extensibility: is stretchability, the maximum amount a bandage can stretch. So for example, if a 3-meter bandage has 100% extensibility it would stretch up to a maximum length of 6 meters.
  • Recoil: is to regain. Once you stretch a bandage and release the stretch, it should come back to it’s original length. You can tell the quality of the bandage by its recoil, all good quality bandages will go back to its original length.
  • Working pressure: The bandage pressure on the limb when the limb is in an active state; for example standing, walking, etc.
  • Resting pressure: The bandage pressure on the limb when it is in an inactive/ resting state; for example lying down or sitting down.

 Some of the benefits bandages provide:

  • Reduce swelling by applying Intense therapy sessions.
  • Long-term use when certain individuals cannot wear compression garments.
  • Helps to control swelling symptoms in patients with complex medical issues.

The compression bandages are mainly of two distinct types – the long stretch and the short stretch ones.

Long-stretch also known as Elastic bandages
Long stretch bandages contain elastic yarn which allows them to stretch more than 100% of the initial original length. They can be applied smoothly and will conform according to the contour of the body.

Short-stretch also known as Low-elasticity bandages
The short stretch bandages, however, are composed of cotton fibers. These fibers are interwoven so that the original length can be extended by almost 60% at the time of usage. The main advantage of the short stretch bandages is that they provide high working pressure that is necessary for lymphatic drainage as well as venous flow.

Extensibility: Short-stretch vs. Long-stretch bandages

Short stretch bandages are made out of 100% breathable cotton. Because of the way they are woven it causes interlocking of the fibers and results in a higher compression. Thus they are more effective for a higher working pressure. Being reusable and easily washable they end up being quite economical for people suffering from venous edema, lymphedema, post-traumatic swelling, etc. Most commonly short stretch bandages are used for vascular insufficiency, as it acts like a calf muscle to pump blood/ lymph towards the heart.

Long-stretch bandages have fibers which stretch as edema increases. They have high extensibility and recoil. Most commonly long stretch bandages are used to treat sprained areas of the body. They are often used to provide support and relief to tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Depending on the grade of bandage that is used, elastic systems may need to be taken off at night since the pressure that they exert is difficult to tolerate when sleeping.

Consultation with your Doctor
Doctors will help guide you in choosing the most appropriate bandage for your condition and also make sure that the bandaging is done using the correct technique. He/She will also guide you on how to take proper care of your bandages.

Before starting any type of compression therapy, Datt Mediproducts recommends to consult with a doctor or undergo a comprehensive clinical assessment. Compression therapy is contraindicated in individuals with certain diseases and conditions, so it’s best to check that you don’t fall into any of these categories before you start bandaging. To know more about these bandages, visit us @ www.dattmedi.com

Stay Safe! Stay Healthy!

Visit www.dattmedi.com for more infomation.
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CHOOSING THE RIGHT DRESSING

Chronic wounds are wounds that fail to heal within the expected time frame, typically lasting more than four weeks. They can arise due to underlying conditions such as diabetes, prolonged pressure, or venous insufficiency. Common types include diabetic ulcers, bed sores, and venous leg ulcers.

Managing chronic wounds presents significant challenges, including a high risk of infection, slow healing, and patient discomfort. The right dressing plays a crucial role in creating an optimal healing environment, reducing complications, and improving patient outcomes.

Types of Chronic Wounds and Their Dressing Needs

Diabetic Ulcers

  • A Diabetic foot ulcer is a debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus. It refers  to an open sore or wound, commonly developing on the feet of people with diabetes.
  • Require moisture balance, infection control, and non-adhesive properties to protect fragile skin.

Bed Sores

  • Bed sores are ulcers which usually develop gradually on the skin and the tissue underneath. Occurring mostly in bed ridden patients, bed sores arise on the skin covering bony areas of the body such as hips, back, tailbone, etc.
  • Demand dressings that redistribute pressure and effectively manage exudate to prevent further skin breakdown.

Venous Leg Ulcers

  • Venous leg ulcers are chronic wounds affecting mostly older adults. They primarily result from prolonged venous insufficiency, which leads to tissue breakdown in lower extremities.
  • Benefit from a combination of compression therapy and absorbent dressings to address venous insufficiency and excessive fluid.

Infected Chronic Wounds

  • Chronic infected wounds are those wounds that do not even start to heal after 4 to 12 weeks despite treatment. They develop due to poor blood circulation, weak immune system or co-morbid conditions such as diabetes.
  • Require antimicrobial dressings to manage bacterial load and prevent further complications.

Key Dressing Options:

VEL NeXT™

  • Designed specifically for chronic wounds, including diabetic ulcers, burns, necrotizing fasciitis, and venous ulcers.
  • Promotes faster wound healing while maintaining an optimal moisture balance.

Velvert®

  • A secure antimicrobial dressing with excellent moisture management.
  • Ideal for wounds at high risk of infection, including diabetic ulcers and chronic wounds.

Silvel™

  • Features nano-crystalline silver for strong antimicrobial action.
  • Features silver for strong antimicrobial action.
  • Suitable for infected or high-risk wounds, particularly bed sores.

Velsap™

  • Designed for moderate to heavily exuding wounds.
  • Provides effective fluid management, reducing the need for frequent dressing changes.

How to Choose the Right Dressing?

Selecting the right dressing requires a comprehensive assessment of several factors:

  • Wound Type: Identify whether the wound is a diabetic ulcer, pressure sore, or venous ulcer.
  • Exudate Levels: Choose absorbent dressings for heavily exuding wounds and moisture-retaining options for dry wounds.
  • Infection Status: Use antimicrobial dressings for infected or high-risk wounds.
  • Patient-Specific Considerations: Factors such as mobility, skin sensitivity, and underlying health conditions must be considered.
Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in guiding dressing selection based on individual wound characteristics and patient needs.

Additional Tips for Chronic Wound Care Management

  • Proper Cleaning & Debridement: Keeping the wound clean and removing dead tissue enhances healing.
  • Regular Monitoring & Dressing Changes: Assessing the wound regularly and changing dressings at the right intervals prevent complications and ensure steady healing.

Chronic wounds require tailored solutions to support healing and prevent complications. Choosing the right dressing—ensures optimal wound care and faster recovery.

Explore our advanced dressing solutions today and find the best option for your wound care needs!

Wound during physical activity

Recovery doesn’t mean slowing down. Staying active while recovering from an injury or managing a wound doesn’t have to be an impossible task. With the right products and strategies, you can keep moving while ensuring that your recovery stays on track.

Whether you’re returning to your workout routine after surgery, dealing with an orthopedic injury, or healing a wound, we’ve got you covered.  Let’s dive into how you can integrate orthopedic and wound care products into your active lifestyle to keep you on the move and in the game.

The hidden risks of being active during recovery

Exercise helps circulation and mental health, but certain movements can disrupt healing. 
For wounds, bending, twisting, or sweating can weaken dressings and delay recovery.

EXAMPLE

Imagine a wound that’s healing well, but every time you move, the bandage loosens or moisture from sweat causes irritation. That can delay healing, reopen a wound, or even introduce bacteria. Similarly, orthopedic injuries like fractures or sprains require careful management to avoid strain that hinders healing.

The first rule of staying active during recovery?

Keep wounds protected during physical activity. The right products will shield your injury from friction, dirt, and moisture while allowing the skin to breathe. Opt for dressings that stay secure, comfortable, and irritation-free.

Our top products for Active Healing

When it comes to active recovery, we understand that you need products that work with you, not against you. That’s why we recommend products designed for ultimate support and flexibility.

  • Velpore™, Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Tape:
    Hypoallergenic and breathable, it keeps dressings in place during physical activity without skin irritation.
  • Velfix® T+Pad, Waterproof Dressing:
    Ideal for post-surgical recovery, this waterproof dressing provides a bacterial barrier while you stay active.
  • Velfix® -T Film, Transparent Dressing:
    Clear, waterproof, and flexible, it offers protection while maintaining full range of motion.

When dealing with an orthopedic injury, immobilization is essential—but that doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines.  Whether it’s a sprain, strain, or fracture, finding the right orthopedic product can help ensure that your recovery stays on track, even as you navigate through your day-to-day activities.

Hygiene: Clean up after movement

Excess sweat and dirt can compromise wound care. Velfix® -T+Pad helps manage moisture and ensures easy post-workout cleaning, preventing infection while maintaining healing.

While staying active is crucial, some exercises may be more beneficial than others during recovery. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can promote healing without overstraining your injury.

Recognize when to pause

Pay attention to swelling, redness, or increased pain after activity. If these occur, rest and assess—early intervention ensures faster recovery.

Holistic Healing: Rest & Nutrition

Healing requires proper rest and nutrition. A balanced diet, hydration, and enough sleep support tissue repair and overall recovery. Include vitamins, protein, and antioxidants to aid healing. Stay active and heal efficiently by using the right wound care and orthopedic products. With proper protection, hygiene, and mindful activity, your recovery journey can stay on track.

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