How to Stretch an Ace Bandage

Ace bandage with metal clip

An Ace bandage is an elastic wrap that places pressure on a wounded body part to provide support and protection, such as for a sprained ankle. Ace bandages have two metal clips with serrated teeth sewn into the elastic at one end. The bandage is rolled up from this end so the clips can be attached to the bandage and hold it securely once it is wrapped. Stretching an Ace bandage while wrapping increases the amount of pressure the elastic exerts on the wrapped body part.

Things You'll Need

• Ace bandage

Instructions

1. Place the end of the rolled Ace bandage directly on the skin of the affected area, with the bandage label facing the skin.

2. Hold the end of the bandage with one hand while pulling and wrapping the rolled bandage with the other, up, over and around the injured area. Remove your hand after the first complete wrap around the injured area, as the second bandage layer will hold the end in place.

3. Pull the roll to stretch the Ace bandage and hold it at a constant tension so the wrap goes evenly over the injured area. Pulling tighter on the bandage increases the pressure on the wrap; however, do not pull so tight that the elastic distorts and potentially cuts off blood circulation below the wrap.

4. Stretch then end of the wrap to create tension to apply the pronged ends of the metal clips to the bandage surface, preventing it from unraveling.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not stretch an Ace bandage so tightly that the elastic appears deformed or loses its rectangular shape. If wrapped too tightly, the bandage can have a tourniquet effect and cut off blood pressure with dangerous and potentially lethal consequences.

References

• Drugs.com: How to Use an Ace Wrap
• Nucleus Medical Media: Ace Bandage Application