Which maternity bandage is better - tips for choosing. AlekZander. Rope bondage for beginners Types of bondage

A bandage for the abdominal cavity is made of an elastic material in the form of a bandage, which is fixed in the places where fixation is necessary. Most often, such a belt is worn during the rehabilitation period after abdominal surgery. Dressings are used for different purposes and differ in their structure.

Indications

The indications for wearing an orthopedic belt are operations carried out in the area of \u200b\u200bthe digestive tract and genitourinary system. Elastic bandages are intended in order to prevent organ prolapse, suture divergence and the penetration of pathogenic flora into wounds that have not healed after surgery.

The bandage reduces the stress on the abdominal cavity, which makes it easier for people who have survived the operation.

Often, an elastic belt is recommended to be worn by patients who suffer from injuries in the back or have undergone surgery on the spinal column. A bandage is used to diagnose various forms of hernias. It is fixed in those areas where fat deposits were removed during the operation.

Women expecting a baby should use a bandage if they have muscle weakness in the abdomen, there is a high risk of prolapse of the uterus, or they are expecting twins.

Classification

In the manufacture of belts, different materials are used, the degree of fixation also has different levels.

The features of the bandage depend on the purpose for which it will be used. Most often they are used for the treatment and prevention of abdominal hernia.

Curative

The peculiarity of medical devices is that a special mesh made of elastic and durable fabric is embedded in them. It helps to fix organs in the right places, excluding their displacement or loss. For people who cannot undergo surgery due to individual indicators, the bandage becomes a means of preventing the progression of the disease.

A fixation treatment belt is prescribed in the following situations:

  • with the development of a hernia of the white line of the abdomen;
  • if a hernia occurs in the groin or thigh area;
  • in order to prevent the rupture of the seams after the performed abdominal operation.

In case of injuries in the back or abdomen, an elastic belt will help during the rehabilitation phase. The greatest effect in restoring the body can be achieved if the patient, adhering to all the recommendations of conservative treatment, performs the required physical activity and sleeps on an orthopedic mattress.

Prophylactic

The fixation level of a preventive bandage is less than that of other types. Its wearing is recommended for those people who have an increased likelihood of developing a hernia. Often, professional athletes or people who are actively involved in sports resort to the use of such elastic bandages. For beginners, with an incorrectly designed training program, injuries in the abdominal area are possible.

The use of a prophylactic bandage may be due to abnormalities in the localization or structure of the abdominal organs.

The length of time the bandages are worn depends on the stage of development of the pathology.

Postoperative

The purpose of wearing a bandage in the postoperative period is to ensure rapid healing of sutures. Its therapeutic benefit lies in the fact that it evenly distributes the load on the internal organs and consolidates the position of those areas that have recently been operated on. Modern technologies used in the manufacture of dressings allow the use of the strongest elastic fabrics that provide the desired degree of compression.

Thanks to wearing the bandage in the postoperative period, the patient experiences less pain. In addition, the bandage ensures the stability of the seam and prevents it from spreading.

Models

Any model of an orthopedic bandage is aimed at fixing the abdominal organs, which will prevent complications from developing. The most commonly used types of elastic devices are:

  • Orto. It is used in cases where it is necessary to protect the postoperative sutures from discrepancies, as well as to fix the organs in the peritoneal region in their physiologically natural position. The belt is worn after surgery.
  • Orlett. A universal remedy in order to prevent the development of pathologies of the peritoneum. It fixes the organs in the desired position and distributes the pressure so as to prevent them from moving.
  • Trives orthopedic dressings are worn both before and after the operation. Bandages of this type are universal, therefore they are suitable for a patient of any age and build.
  • T 1339 is a type of bandage that is used to be worn in the chest area. Often assigned to men.
  • Ekoten is prescribed to women before and after childbirth as a preventive measure for the displacement of internal organs.
  • Crate B 339 is designed for those patients who have a stoma, that is, a hole made by a surgeon that provides a connection between different organs, for example, the trachea and the external environment. This type of bandage fixes the abdominal wall in the desired position, supports the muscle corset. Krate B 339 relieves pain, prevents the appearance of a hernia, reduces the possibility of infection.

The most suitable type of elastic belt is selected by the attending physician.

Selection features

Pharmaceutical companies offer a wide range of orthopedic braces. To buy the most suitable one, you should consider some recommendations.

Thus, the size of the bandage should not exceed the circumference of the waist. The bandage should be made of elastic fabric, and of such quality that it does not cause friction while wearing it.

It is important that the belt is not sweaty or irritating to the skin, therefore a breathable material should be chosen.

When choosing a bandage, you should pay attention to the possibility of adjusting the fixation force and correction. The width of the belt should also be taken into account: it must completely cover and support the part of the abdominal cavity on which the operation was performed. Wearing a bandage should not be uncomfortable. On the contrary, it should help to get rid of pain and keep the organs in the right position.

How to wear a bandage

The bandage should be worn in the morning while lying down. The belt is positioned so that the applicator is on the umbilical ring. After the belt has been put on, the abdomen is lightly massaged in order to reduce the protrusion. Then the belt is wrapped around the body and secured with Velcro.

The abdominal band is worn throughout the day, only removed during sleep.

Prophylactic belts are worn on those days when a hernial protrusion may occur. If a person experiences pain when wearing an elastic belt, the bandage should be removed and the doctor should be informed about it.

Contraindications

Wearing an elastic belt is prohibited for people who have developed complications of a hernia, which requires immediate surgical intervention.

The presence of severe skin infections in the areas where the bandage should be worn also precludes its use.

There are no contraindications for prenatal dressings. If a person is allergic to the elements that make up the material of the bandage, then the bandage is recommended to be worn over clothing. The same measures can be applied in the presence of skin diseases.

Women after childbirth should not wear devices if they develop kidney disease or gastrointestinal tract disorders.

For some types of stitches remaining after a cesarean section, it is also not recommended to wear belts.

Maternity belt

It is recommended to wear a bandage for women during pregnancy if they have spinal pathologies. In addition to this indication, the doctor may prescribe wearing a belt if there is a risk of miscarriage. The presence of a large amount of amniotic fluid, the large size of the child, as well as scars on the surface of the uterine epithelium - all this can be the reason why a woman will need to wear a bandage before giving birth. They wear it from 4 months of pregnancy. The bandage is removed at night. It is possible to do this at another time, so that the fetus does not experience a lack of oxygen.

Anti-hernia bandage on the abdominal wall

Postoperative abdominal bandage AB-309

Children's abdominal bandage

With a high probability of developing a hernia in the abdominal region, children are prescribed elastic belts. They are easily attached to the baby's belly. The materials used for small patients are hypoallergenic.

The dressing should be applied correctly so that it does not create breathing difficulties and does not interfere with the normal development of the child.

A well-made bandage is not felt when worn and is not visible under clothing. You cannot prescribe and buy a bandage yourself. This should be done by a pediatric surgeon.

Modern medicine is very rich in various devices that can make life easier for a person. This includes orthopedic insoles, corsets and, of course, orthopedic bandages.

The bandage is a special device for medical purposes, in the form of an elastic belt that has fasteners or ties.

The bandage is prescribed to patients after surgery, during pregnancy, as well as when the pelvic organs and abdominal organs are lowered to support them.

Elastic waistband allows men and women to avoid such unpleasant aspects that burden life:

  • and tiredness
  • Feeling of heaviness in the limbs and the whole body
  • Feeling of "walking" pain in the body.

One of the most important useful actions of the bandage can be considered as mitigating the load on the spine.

No one will argue that - are a frequent reason for visiting a doctor. Painful sensations interfere with work and often shackle men and women at the most inopportune moment.

In this case, the bandage will be an excellent tool for increasing the level of workability and alleviating pain in the spine and lower back.

Classification of types of bandages

Bandages are freely available in pharmacies and specialized stores. The pharmacist or sales assistant can advise the buyer on the spot on which type of bandage is.

But it would be much more correct, before buying a bandage, to consult with a specialist doctor who will tell you exactly the type of bandage you need.

The effectiveness of its application will depend on how correctly the type of bandage is selected.

All bandages are divided into types depending on the indications for which they are used:

  1. Hernial. It can be prescribed for adults and children, when preventing the prolapse and exit of internal organs from the pelvic organs or from the abdominal cavity.
  2. Postoperative. The field of injuries and operations in the chest or abdominal cavity is assigned. Such a bandage allows after surgery and promotes faster wound healing. In addition, it allows you to prevent the appearance of a postoperative hernia, as well as fix the chest and abdominal region.
  3. Prenatal ... It has an effect on the spine and lower back, prevents the appearance of stretch marks on the skin. Due to the support of the spine, they practically disappear.
  4. Postpartum. Accelerates the time interval of postpartum uterine contraction, stimulates muscle and skin tone.
  5. Pelvic. This type is prescribed after injuries and when the pelvic bones diverge (this can happen in late pregnancy). The main task is to reduce pain and support the joints.

What forms of bandages are

In addition to the division into types of bandages, each individual band can have a different appearance. Let's describe them in more detail:

Bandage shape Description
Ribbon belt Designed for the lumbar spine. It can be worn during pregnancy, as it is fixed under the belly. This form does not put pressure on the uterus and has side elastic bands
Bungee panties They fix the uterus well and support the abdomen. Have a high waist. The waistband of the panties is wide, with elastic inserts on the lower back and abdomen.
Bungee Shorts They have a similar function as a bungee panties, but at the bottom they are shaped like shorts. Practical during the cold season.
Combined form Allows you to evenly distribute the load over the body. The belt is made of rubberized fabric. Fastens with Velcro. Maybe or to strengthen the back.
Skirt-belt Used in the postpartum period. There is a tight insert on the stomach.
Bungee Grace Clasp on the side and bottom. The bandage has a slimming effect due to the very dense fabric on the abdomen.
Bungee Grace The clasp is made on the side and bottom. The bandage has a slimming effect due to the very dense fabric on the abdomen. The waist is high. Well suited for women after childbirth.

Under what indications is a bandage prescribed?

As already mentioned, the bandage can be purchased at the pharmacy without a doctor's recommendation, at your own request.

But still, the practice of prescribing bandages by specialists is more common.

Indications for the appointment of wearing a bandage may include the following factors:

  • Active lifestyle
  • Postoperative recovery
  • Strong physical activity (daily for 2-3 hours)
  • Pregnancy (repeated, multiple)
  • Recovery after a cesarean section
  • Varicose veins
  • Prevention of stretch marks on the skin
  • Uterus removal
  • Prolapse of the uterus
  • Prevention of premature birth
  • at the feet
  • Gynecological diseases

Contraindications to wearing a bandage

If you decide to buy a bandage at your own request, you need to consult with a specialist in order to exclude possible complications from wearing it.

For many patients, it comes as a surprise that the bandage, in addition to it, can also harm if used incorrectly.

Let us list the main situations when wearing a bandage can negatively affect health :

  1. Renal failure, accompanied by edema.
  2. Pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (for example, with an ulcer, it is strictly forbidden to squeeze the intestines).
  3. Diseases of the skin at the site of the bandage (tumors, eczema, deep wounds).
  4. Wearing a bandage on postoperative wounds (suppuration and increased friction in the area of \u200b\u200bthe bandage are possible).
  5. Fresh sutures after operations, under the bandage, may come apart when squeezed).
  6. Allergic skin reactions to the tissue from which the bandage is made.

How to choose the right bandage

The choice of a bandage is a crucial step that has a significant effect.Therefore, when buying it, you need to carefully weigh and think over the following aspects.

  • Check the material from which the bandage is made. Choose natural fabrics as they are less likely to be allergic. It is better that the composition contains such materials: cotton, lycra, elastane.
  • To correctly select the size of the belt, fitting is required. If the seller does not allow fitting on the body, measure your hips and waist, and compare with the instructions on the brace. Personal fitting also allows you to evaluate the convenience of the purchased product. Each woman and man has an individual figure, therefore, different forms of bandages have been invented in order to choose the most convenient option.
  • Do not buy postpartum bandages in advance ... Each woman individually loses weight, so it is rather difficult to predict the required sizes.
  • Pay attention to the clasps. They should be comfortable and not rubbed. Give preference to tiered fasteners. They are practical for a growing belly. This is convenient not only during pregnancy, but also for people prone to weight gain.
  • When trying on a bandage to determine its convenience, it is worth using several poses to determine exactly how much it fits.
  • Please note that the price of the bandage depends on its appearance ... Therefore, buying expensive products does not always mean excellent quality.
  • Refuse to purchase used products. Their effectiveness is in great doubt. Stretched products are not able to provide a snug fit of the bandage and, accordingly, provide.

For comfortable performance of daily work and active recreation, it is recommended that pregnant women use a bandage after the 20th week. How comfortable it will be to wear depends on the correct selection of the size of the ring.

What is a bandage for?

The brace serves to support the back, reducing stress due to weight imbalance in the front of the torso and the back. The overweight of the abdomen negatively affects the internal organs, the spine. Due to prolonged overstrain in the lower back, discomfort and pain occur.

From the third trimester of pregnancy, obstetricians-gynecologists prescribe the wearing of a prenatal bandage to expectant mothers. However, the timing may shift depending on the individual feelings of the woman. If the fetus is large or an abundant amount of amniotic fluid is found, a fixing structure will be required from 17-19 weeks.

Regular wearing of a corset reduces the likelihood of dangerous manifestations:

  • delivery ahead of schedule;
  • termination of pregnancy;
  • reducing the pressure of the presenting part of the fetus, amniotic fluid on the cervix;
  • inflammatory process in the pubic joint;
  • the formation of stretch marks on the lower back and in the abdominal region.

The first signal about the need to fix the abdomen is felt by the woman herself. Pulling pains, heaviness, and other unpleasant symptoms appear.

Factors conducive to wearing a support structure during pregnancy:

  • low fetal position;
  • large fruit;
  • breech presentation, etc. pathology.

You need to use the bandage after childbirth. The support of the internal organs of the abdominal cavity creates conditions for the rapid contraction of the uterus, toning muscle tissue and skin. After a cesarean section, the construction reliably fixes the sutures. Regular use of the belt is an essential part of preventing prolapse of internal organs.

According to doctors, an excessive increase in the size of the uterus, which is caused by multiple pregnancy or polyhydramnios, provokes severe stretching of the skin and abdominal muscles. Due to the well thought-out configuration, the bandage does not allow their strong deformation. This shortens the postpartum recovery period.

The bandage protects the spine from curvature, relieves the load on the lumbosacral spine. The constant use of the structure prevents the development of pain in the lower back.

The bandage design is indicated for all pregnant women. There are no contraindications. The only warning doctors point out is when by 30-32 weeks the fetus has not taken the correct position in the womb. In order for the process to proceed without complications, any obstacles that interfere with the child's movements should be excluded. All fixing straps fall under the ban.

Types of bandages



There are several types of maternity support bandages.

Bandage tape

The construction looks like a wide belt made of elastic material. The central part of the tape has an extension. Velcro is attached to the edges, which allows you to adjust the tension. The elastic fabric is poorly breathable, so some manufacturers make perforated bandages. This ensures the body's natural heat exchange, allowing it to breathe. The peculiarity of the corset is its versatility. You can wear it before and after childbirth.

Support panties

The panty wrap is suitable for use during pregnancy and after childbirth. The tight fit of the material fixes the uterus in the correct position and prevents the skin from stretching. Panties are put on only in the "lying" position on top of regular underwear. This eliminates the daily wash of the fixing garment.

Among the various models, there are options with adjusters located between the legs (like a bodysuit). Delicate lace, soft fabric make the wear comfortable. There are elastic inserts in the abdomen and on the lower back, which carry out a supporting function.

The types of bandage panties are shorts, pants. The constructions are designed for use in the cold season. The principle of fixing the abdomen is the same as for the base model.

Maternity belt

Outwardly, the design is similar to a bandage tape. The difference is that the elastic part is located only in the abdomen. The main function of the product is to fix the baby's head and prevent the fetus from dropping. Adjustable valves are located on the sides. Usually, such a design is recommended to be worn by those who have the prerequisites for premature birth.

Universal bandages

Combined products are designed to restore the figure. One part of the girdle is narrow, the other is wide. Stiffening ribs are often installed in vertical seams. They do not create discomfort when worn. These models are called corset.

The universal look is suitable for wearing before and after childbirth. The fixing parts are on the back. Benefits: functionality, comfortable putting on, affordable price.
When choosing a size, you should focus on the girth of the abdomen (the horizontal line should pass through the navel). 5 cm is added to this value.

Maternity bandage size chart

The main criterion for choosing a dressing for pregnant women is the size corresponding to the woman's volume. You shouldn't rush to buy. Better to try on several options from different manufacturers.

If you have difficulties with determining the parameters, you should ask a consultant for help.

Bandages-belts are selected in the same size as before pregnancy. The panties should be one size larger.

Standard size grid for a bandage belt

Hips before pregnancy (cm) Bandage size
89-92 92
93-96 96
97-100 100
101-104 104
105-108 108
109-112 112

When buying a corset, you need to take into account that the size grid of manufacturers can be different. Therefore, you cannot do without fitting.

How to choose a bandage

The choice of a belt that fixes the abdomen is carried out taking into account the following factors:

  • the age of the woman;
  • fetal position;
  • gestational age;
  • the number of previous births;
  • type of construction.

If the pregnancy is not the first, then wearing a bandage is mandatory.
When buying a supporting structure, you should focus on the following parameters.

The size

The size of the support structure is determined by measuring the circumference of the hips along the line under the belly. When taking measurements, the centimeter tape must be fixed strictly horizontally.

The size is determined according to the standard grid. However, it is worth considering that some manufacturers use their own size chart when sewing.

If difficulties arise with the choice of the type of construction and other parameters, the obstetrician-gynecologist will recommend the most suitable options. This is especially true when the pregnancy is complicated.

Material

Maternity belts are made from different fabrics:

  • polyamide;
  • cotton;
  • viscose;
  • lycra;
  • polyester.

For long-term wear, you need to choose a natural material that has good hygroscopicity. This will allow the body to breathe in a sanitary manner.

However, don't expect much from a 100% cotton blend. It is not able to maintain its shape, provide elasticity. Therefore, the cotton thread is supplemented with elastane or other synthetic fiber. The main thing is that most of it was assigned to natural material.

You should pay attention not only to the composition, but also to the design features. Preference should be given to tiered fasteners. This will allow the wrap to be adjusted to your body shape for a comfortable fit.

Colour

In the matter of choosing a color, a woman is usually guided by her own preferences. The range of colors is not so great. Pregnancy support structures are often limited to three colors: white, beige and black. Some manufacturers delight the eye with a variety of tonalities:

  • burgundy;
  • grey;
  • pink;
  • lactic.

Brand name

When choosing a corset for pregnant women, preference is given to well-known manufacturers. Ranking positions are occupied by:

  • Reabilitimed;
  • Orlett;
  • Relaxsan;
  • BRADEX;
  • TONUS ELAST.

Advantages of large manufacturing companies:

  1. Availability of modern equipment.
  2. Staffing with highly qualified workers.
  3. Laboratory checks for compliance with quality and hygiene requirements.

Particular attention is paid to product performance. Wear resistance and design reliability are confirmed by international quality certificates. Therefore, gynecologists strongly advise using such bandages.

Price

Average prices for fixation structures for pregnant women:

  • panties - 1200 rubles;
  • combined - 1500 rubles;
  • corsets - 1,700 rubles;
  • universal - 800 rubles;
  • belt - 900 rubles.

You should not buy cheap belts from an unknown manufacturer. Usually they are sewn in clandestine workshops from poor quality material. After a couple of weeks of using the corset, the shape is lost, the fabric is stretched. The hygiene indicators of such bandages remain questionable.

Synthetic straps are not suitable for daily wear. It does not meet hygienic requirements and standards.

How to use the bandage correctly


The universal sheathing model is assigned to expectant mothers and women after childbirth. You can start using a support corset from 20-24 weeks. The maximum wearing time should not exceed 10 hours per day. This is subject to the organization of small breaks every 3 hours (20-30 minutes is enough). The narrow part of the belt goes under the belly, the wide side fixes the position of the back.

After childbirth, the abdominal fixation belt works differently. The grip is done with the wide part of the elastic band. In this case, before fastening the Velcro, you need to relax the abdominal muscles. Corsets are worn until the skin turgor is restored.

Do not wear a belt at night. She does not perform her functions in this position of the body. Squeezing sensations will interfere with rest.

It is better to put on a support structure from a supine position with raised hips. In this position, the internal organs are placed comfortably. This achieves a snug fit of the elastic fabric to the body. Algorithm of actions:

  1. Put the belt on the sofa.
  2. Lie with your back on him.
  3. Wait 2-3 minutes until the fruit moves up.
  4. Fasten the valve (or several valves) with Velcro so that the palm passes between the corset and the skin.

Many expectant mothers got used to putting on a bandage in a standing position. But doctors do not recommend using this method.

Experts advise to wear belt-shaped designs on underwear. The elastic part is placed in front under the belly along the upper thigh line. The bottom edge should rest lightly on the pubic part. The tension force is adjusted with adhesive tape. The corset loosens and tightens as discomfort manifests itself.

An orthopedic brace is a medical device whose main function is moderate to severe compression of the abdominal region. Depending on the type of bandage, compression can be aimed at solving various tasks: maintaining the descending internal organs in a normal position, strengthening the abdominal press, restoring the abdominal wall after abdominal operations, preventing the exit of the abdominal organs through the hernial port, preventing inguinal and umbilical hernias, reducing the load on the lumbar spine during pregnancy.

Hernial umbilical cord for children
Children's umbilical cord is an elastic belt with Velcro fastener and a semi-rigid pad, which is located above the navel area. The umbilical band creates local compression of the umbilical region and is used for the prevention and conservative treatment of umbilical hernias in children under 6 years of age, and also contributes to the correct closure of the umbilical canal in infants. It is made of hypoallergenic, breathable materials and has a universal size.

Adult umbilical hernia brace
The umbilical cord for adults is a wide (approximately 20 cm) elastic belt with stiffening ribs, a soft pad, ties and Velcro fastener. It is used to prevent umbilical hernia during intense physical exertion, to prevent infringement of umbilical, peri-umbilical, incisional hernias and hernias of the white line of the abdomen, as well as after operations on the abdominal wall to prevent recurrent hernias. It is made from hypoallergenic materials that create good air exchange.

Hernia groin bandage for men
The groin bandage for men is an elastic belt with shoulder straps, pockets for pilots and Velcro fasteners. It is used for the prevention of inguinal hernias and the prevention of hernia infringement during intense physical labor. It can be used for both right and left hernia. The groin bandage is made of natural, elastic materials with a high cotton content. It should be remembered that an inguinal bandage is contraindicated for irreducible hernias.

Bandage for lowering the pelvic organs in women
Such a bandage is produced in the form of panties with ties made of elastic tape and a semi-rigid pad made of polyurethane foam. It is used for the prolapse of the pelvic organs (uterus, cervix, vagina), as well as for the conservative treatment of reducible inguinal hernias. Ties and pelot create the required level of intra-abdominal pressure, thereby limiting the displacement of internal organs and reducing pain.

The postoperative chest bandage is an elastic belt with Velcro fastener, which is fixed at the level of the chest. Available in male and female versions, taking into account anatomical features. It is used for fixing the chest after injuries and operations, as well as for myalgia, myositis and intercostal neuralgia. The postoperative chest bandage reduces pain in the injured area, promotes healing of postoperative wounds and prevents the formation of postoperative hernias.

Abdominal (lumbar) postoperative bandage
The postoperative lumbar brace is a wide (3 or 4-panel) belt made of elastic medical fabric, equipped with a Velcro fastener. It is used to fix the abdominal wall with hernias of the white line of the abdomen, after injuries and operations on the abdominal organs, incl. with a cesarean section. The abdominal postoperative bandage protects the abdominal wall from overstrain, promotes the formation of a postoperative scar, and prevents the development of postoperative hernias of the anterior abdominal wall. In addition, the abdominal brace is used for cosmetic purposes to tighten the abdomen and create an attractive silhouette.

Prenatal and postpartum bandages are anatomically shaped elastic-elastic belt with fasteners. The combination maternity bandage can be used both during pregnancy and after childbirth. In the prenatal period, the bandage supports the abdomen, relieves the lumbar spine, prevents the formation of stretch marks, reduces the pressure of the uterus on the intestines, bladder and inferior vena cava, relieves lower back pain and creates all conditions for the correct development of the fetus. In the postpartum period, the bandage significantly accelerates the process of contraction of the uterus and restoration of the abdominal muscles, and provides a slimming cosmetic effect.

The semi-rigid pelvic bandage is a narrow elastic, reinforced belt with removable groin straps. It is used for pelvic bone divergence, instability and divergence between the two pubic bones in late pregnancy and after injury, as well as for dysfunction of the sacroiliac joint and pain in the lower back. A pelvic band helps relieve pain and supports the joints of the pelvic ring.

Not everyone knows what a bandage is. The Wikipedia site describes it as a medical elastic waistband equipped with zip ties, buckles and pillows. Its main purpose is to correct and support a specific part of the body after surgery (this can be the abdominal cavity, elbow or knee joint, etc.).

Bandage: different types and their features

In addition to fixing the operated area, the bandages can be used by pregnant women, patients with hernias and athletes, and in each case the effect is different. In order to have a clear idea of \u200b\u200bwhat it is - a bandage, you need to determine what kind of product is in question.

There are the following types of bandages:

  • Anti-hernia. Their task is to prevent the exit of internal organs from the abdominal cavity through the hernia gate. It is used by patients with umbilical hernias and women with prolapse of the pelvic organs.

  • Postoperative. The most common type for fixation of the chest and abdomen after serious injury or surgery. The postoperative bandage reduces pain, accelerates tissue healing and prevents postoperative hernia formation.
  • Prenatal. Such bandages are a real salvation for pregnant women in the later stages. They relieve stress on the lower back, support a grown belly, relieve back pain and reduce the likelihood of stretch marks.
  • Postpartum. The use of this variety by women immediately after childbirth speeds up the process of uterine contraction, quickly returning the organs to the right places. The compression they create tightens the abdomen, helping to restore the female figure.
  • The pelvic band is used by patients after serious injury and by women in late pregnancy.
  • Sports braces are a large subgroup of medical braces designed for use during physical activity and in the recovery process from injuries.

Since we are interested in sports bandage, let us consider in more detail its characteristics, types and purposes.

Sports bandage - what is it?

Professionals and active amateurs of various sports use a variety of bandages to protect against injury and accelerate the recovery process. There are many such products on sale that differ not only in appearance, but also in purpose.

All sports bandages can be roughly divided into preventive and post-traumatic. The first task is to prevent injury to certain parts of the body. The purpose of the latter is to speed up rehabilitation and add confidence to the damaged part of the body.

By placement, several types are distinguished: for the knee, wrist, ankle, elbow, thigh and lower leg, shoulder and back. Let's consider each of them separately.

Knee brace

This is the most popular type as the knees are subject to increased stress in many sports. The joints in this area must simultaneously take on body weight and at the same time provide the athlete with mobility. Most sports involve jumping and running, and these are the most traumatic exercises.

A knee brace is made in the form of an elastic cover that is worn over the middle of the leg, usually from the middle of the thigh to the middle of the lower leg. Modern knee braces have a lot of advantages and technological features:

  • Silicone inserts distribute pressure in the patella area and reduce soft tissue soreness;
  • Anatomical design and use of breathable materials for increased wearing comfort;
  • In the process of movement, the bandage simultaneously supports the joint and adds functionality to it;
  • The sophisticated design allows you not to experience inconvenience even with active movements. Rigidity is provided by reinforcing spirals, and flexibility is provided by areas of soft tissue at the folds.

Wrist bandage

These models are actively used by tennis players. There are wrist orthoses for right-handers and left-handers. Products are equipped with stiffening ribs for more reliable joint fixation.

Ankle brace

Soft elastic "toe" with open toes and heel - this is what similar models look like, which are used for light sprains in the ankle area. They are also suitable for securing the phalanx of the hand, which is useful for basketball and other ball players.


Elbow orthosis

This model is useful for weightlifters and other athletes who are involved in strength sports. This bandage has a compressive effect on the elbow joint and supports it. It protects against injury and the development of chronic diseases.

Thigh or shin bandage

Elastic neoprene bandages are prescribed to be worn on the legs for sprains. They squeeze muscles, increasing their tone and improving blood circulation.

Back corset

This is an indispensable item for strength training of increased load. Thanks to this fixator, it is possible to relieve the spine and lower back. Wearing a brace will speed up recovery from injuries and sprains of the back muscles.

Shoulder orthosis

This type of bandage can only be used as a restorative support, which will speed up recovery from injury. It is inconvenient to carry out training in it, since it fixes the shoulder joint quite tightly.


In order for the bandage to have a positive effect on your body and reliably protect against sprains, dislocations and overloads, it must be chosen under the supervision of a specialist. You should not rely on the advice of an athlete friend, as your health depends on the correct choice of orthosis. Only a sports doctor or orthopedist can select the optimal product with the desired degree of fixation.