Compression wraps are used for various conditions, including sprains, varicose veins, and edema. They help reduce swelling and promote healing. Compression bandages can be bought at pharmacies and come in different forms, including pre-made wraps and stockings. They should be used in conjunction with rest, ice, and elevation. Compression stockings are prescribed by doctors for more severe conditions.
A compression wrap is used as therapy for a wide variety of conditions, including sprains, varicose veins, sports injuries, and edema. Compression therapy, applied to sports injuries or sprains, helps reduce swelling, helping the area heal faster and prevent long-term problems. An ankle sprain is the most common type of injury that requires a compression wrap.
A local pharmacy can provide a wide selection for a customer looking for a compression wrap. Some compression bandages are long, flexible bandages that can be wrapped around the sprained or swollen area. Others are pre-made wraps that are designed for specific parts of the body like the shoulder, wrist, ankle, or knee. They are usually made of nylon and can be slipped over the affected area or fastened with Velcro. For added support, many types come with further reinforcement in the form of plastic or metal trim, or a separate brace can be added to a bandage before manually wrapping the affected area.
When used in conjunction with rest, ice, and elevation, compression of a swollen area can help the injury heal faster by putting pressure on surface veins and preventing blood and fluid from pooling and spreading in the area. . A compression wrap, with or without protective bracing, does not always fully protect the area from further damage. It is important to prevent reinjury by adequately resting the area, freezing the area for up to 20 minutes at a time, and elevating the area above the heart to ensure adequate blood flow.
In addition to a sports injury or sprain, there are several conditions that improve with proper compression therapy. Leg ulcers, obesity, edema, varicose veins and lymphedema can be treated with compression bandages, but also with compression stockings. This type of compression wrap is shaped like a stocking or sock and can be made of spandex, cotton, or nylon. These types of socks come in a variety of compressions from light to heavy pressure.
The stocking can be worn up to the knee, or in some cases, just above and over the affected area. Most compression socks are worn during the day when a patient is on their feet or moving around. Anti-embolism stockings are mainly used to prevent blood clots in patients who are lying down.
Many common sprains or injuries can be taken care of with a trip to the pharmacy and home care. In some cases, a doctor should be contacted if rest, ice, compression, and elevation do not decrease swelling in a reasonable amount of time. Compression stockings, unlike a sports wrap, are usually prescribed by a doctor for more severe conditions.
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