Cohesive compression wrap

You have been given this leaflet, as you have had cohesive wrapping applied to your finger or thumb by the hospital. The aim is for the wrapping to decrease swelling in your fingers / thumb. Swelling is the build-up of fluid in the tissues commonly caused by injury or trauma.

What is cohesive wrapping? 

Cohesive wrapping is an elasticated, self-sticking bandage. The material the wrapping is made from will stick to itself, but not to any other materials or your skin. It will not slip or loosen after application.

The wrap is designed to provide gentle compression, to help push the swelling out of the affected area. As it is self-compressing, do not apply or pull the wrap too tightly, as this can reduce blood circulation. It can be worn throughout the day, unless you are told otherwise by your therapist. 

How do I apply my cohesive wrap? 

• Make a loop around the top of your affected finger / thumb, leaving the tip free. 

• Wrap the cohesive wrapping around your finger / thumb. Overlap each layer of the bandage by a few millimetres as you go down to the base of your finger / thumb, towards your palm.

• Do not pull the bandage tight around your finger / thumb. Keep some of the crinkles in the bandage to make sure it is not too tight and does not restrict blood circulation. 

1. 
   Step 1. Make a loop around the top of your affected finger / thumb, leaving the tip free. 
2. 
   Step 2. Wrap the cohesive wrapping around your finger / thumb.
3. 
   Step 3. Overlap each layer of the bandage by a few millimetres.
4. 
   Dimpled skin

• You can wear cohesive wraps throughout the day, but remove the wrap if getting your hand wet. 

• When not wearing the wrap, store it flat. One piece of wrap can be reused until it stops sticking to itself.

• Your skin may be dimpled when the wrap is removed (see above), this is normal.

Be careful

• Keep the tip of your finger / thumb exposed, so you can check the circulation to your finger / thumb. The tip should stay its normal colour, if it changes colour remove the bandage immediately. 

• If the wrap is too tight you may get pins and needles or numbness. If this happens, remove the wrap immediately. Wait for your sensation to return to normal before re-applying the wrap, not pulling it as tight.

• Apply with the appropriate amount of compression, as shown by your hand therapist. The bandage should feel snug but comfortable.

• Regularly check for signs of tingling, numbness, change of colour or coldness. If you have any of these symptoms, remove the wrap immediately. Once the symptoms have stopped, you can reapply the wrap with less stretch. If the symptoms continue, stop wearing the wrap and tell your hand therapist at your next appointment.

• If you have a latex allergy, make sure the wrap you are using is latex free.

• Do not place the wrap in direct contact with open wounds. 

• Do not wear at night, unless told to by your hand therapist. 

What if I have any questions or concerns? 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment, please call the Hand Therapy Service on 01227 783065 (option 2). 

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