A tensor bandage is a long strip of highly tensile (stretchable) cloth that a therapist uses to wrap around a soft tissue injury like a strain or sprain.Other names for these products are compression bandages or elastic bandages.
Tensor bandages apply gentle compression to the injured area to help reduce swelling.They are similar to compression sleeves that are made to provide a custom fit for specific parts of the body, such as elbow or thigh compression sleeves.
However, elastic bandages can be used virtually on any part of the body and are therefore more versatile. In general, they are also more economically priced than most compression sleeves. Tensor bandages can be easily purchased at most pharmacies.
When shopping for a tensor bandage, you may notice that there are two types available – deluxe and economical.
Deluxe bandages use premium woven spandex and cotton in their construction. They are designed to provide uniform compression throughout the area of application. However, they are usually significantly more expensive than econo bandages.
Tensor bandages come in widths of 2 to 6 inches and can be either single or double length.
The wider the bandage chosen for a specific application, the higher the compression you can apply without restricting the patient’s blood flow.
Use the smaller with bandages for application to smaller body areas such as the wrist, for example. They will also help you provide precisely targeted compression to larger areas.
The wider bandages should be used for larger body parts such as the shoulder or thigh. They will apply compression to a larger area without the need to use a long bandage.
A typical tensor bandage application to an adult arm or leg may use a 3 or 4 inch wide bandage. However, for an adult’s fingers or for a child’s arms or legs, a 2 inch wide bandage would probably be a more appropriate choice.
Although tensors are easy to use, it is wise to be aware of and observe some safety precautions about their use:
Mueller antimicrobial elastic bandages are latex free, washable, anti microbial and reusable and are an excellent solution for applying compression or support to soft tissue injuries or holding cold packs or wound dressings in position. They are a secure Velcro closure, making removal and reapplication a simple matter.
Hartmann Deluxe Woven Elastic Bandages feature a breathable cotton body that minimizes heat build-up without sacrificing support. Its heat resistant heavy gauge rubber improves durability. Available in both Single (4.6M) & Double (10M) lengths. Washable.
The Mueller Sports Medicine Elastic Bandage is a high quality cotton and elastic bandage. A highly versatile bandage that you can use to treat muscle/ligament strains and sprains as well as bone fractures.
Calko Tensor Bandagess are versatile reinforced bandages with stretch and compression. Used mainly to treat muscle strains and sprains, these wraps can also be used to hold hot and cold packs or other bandages in place, to treat bone fractures and also to address lymphedema and other venous disorders.