Figure of 8 bandage: Purpose, Procedure, Benefits and Side Effects

A figure of 8 bandage is a type of medical bandage typically used to secure dressings or splints. It is a simple loop of cloth with two overlapping ends that are tied together, forming an 8-like shape, hence the name. It is often used on the head or limbs to provide support and stability.

• Standard Figure of 8 Bandage: This is a basic type of bandage often used to support a joint or a limb. It is typically used to hold dressings in place or provide compression to an area.
• Tubular Figure of 8 Bandage: This type of bandage is used to support larger body parts such as arms, legs, and shoulders. It is made out of a stretchy material and can be adjusted for different sizes and shapes.
• Figure of 8 Bandage with Padding: This type of bandage comes with padding at the ends that helps provide extra cushioning and comfort. It’s often used for larger body parts, such as arms, legs, and shoulders.
• Velcro Figure of 8 Bandage: This type of bandage uses Velcro fasteners instead of knots, making it easier to adjust the tension on the bandage and get the perfect fit for your needs.

• Figure of 8 bandages often used on a knee, ankle, wrist, elbow, or shoulder.
• The main benefit of using this type of bandage is providing extra stability and support to an injured or weak joint.
• It also helps limit movement which can reduce pain, swelling and inflammation in an injury or weakened area.
• Along with limiting movement it also helps improve circulation as well due to its snug fit.
• The snug fit increases oxygen to the injured area which minimises healing time as well as increasing blood flow throughout the body.

• A figure of 8 bandage is done to provide support, compression, and stabilisation to a joint or area of the body.
• It is often used to help control swelling and reduce pain in a strained or sprained limb.
• This type of bandage can also be used to protect a wound on an arm or leg.
• Additionally, the figure of 8 bandage provides stability and can reduce movement of a joint or limb after an injury, helping it heal and preventing further damage.

Figure 8 bandages can cause skin irritation, constriction, and increased blood pressure.

• If the bandage is too tight, it can cause tissue damage and decreased circulation.
• If the patient has a weakened immune system or diabetes, the risk of infection increases due to the warmth and moisture that can be trapped under the bandage.
• Excessive swelling may occur if the bandage is too tight or left on for too long.
• The bandage may slip off if not properly secured or if it becomes wet, causing further injury to the area being treated.

• Start by gathering the material needed to complete the exercise, such as a bandage or wrap (preferably an elastic wrap), scissors, and tape.
• If you are using a wrap or bandage, make sure it is the correct length and width for the area you wish to cover—you can measure it with a tape measure if needed. It should be large enough to go around the ankle/wrist two to three times.

• To apply a Figure of 8 bandage, begin by wrapping the bandage around the injured area in a figure-of-eight pattern.
• Start at the base of the joint and wrap one end around the back of the joint and up over the front.
• Cross over to wrap around once more and then bring it back up over the top of the joint in a figure-8 shape.
• Continue wrapping up and down until you reach the desired level of compression. Secure with safety pins or tape as needed.

Identify the patient's characteristics, including size of the extremity, condition of skin and risk of developing ischemia

Verify the plan of care by consulting with the physician or licensed healthcare provider

Gather supplies:-

• Figure of 8 bandage
• Tape (optional)
• Scissors
• Wash hands with soap and water before starting

• Position patient on examining table or bed in comfortable position with limb to be wrapped extended for better access and application
• Place stocking, elastic wrap or gauze roll over extremity to serve as padding; alternatively hemostats may be applied for better immobilisation and find fitment of figure 8 wrap around limb
• Determine proper length for each leg of figure 8 bandage from head to heel and across thigh if applicable; cut bandage material accordingly leaving extra long tail at joint
• Begin application at close to body and work away from it; be sure no wrinkles are present while performing wrap (wrinkles impair circulation) Also, allow ample overlap in successive turns but not excessively as this can impede movement
• Cross short and long bands around each side of the limb at joint level forming an X with tails pointing toward the same direction (toward foot). Tie tails together loosely allowing 1-2 fingers space between skin/bandage tie-off point
• Finish wrapping tail around backside/chest making sure not to press too tightly against skin area when coming back around towards joint area; cut off any remaining tail if extra long and secure by taping if desired Secure other tie-off point in similar fashion while avoiding excessive tension on limb

• Observe peripheral pulses distal to figure 8 dressing
• Compare colour, temperature, sensation, capillary refill time on affected extremity with unaffected side
• Ensure loose but snug fit is maintained
• Remove figure 8 dressing twice a day for assessment
• Reapply following assessment
• Advise patient regarding how often they should assess themselves including signs/symptoms they should report

The cost of a Figure 8 bandage in India can vary depending on the size, quality and brand. Generally, it will cost between Rs.20 to Rs.100.

• Foods that are high in fibre, vitamins, minerals and protein should be consumed to get the necessary nutrients and energy for healing.
• Lean proteins such as fish, chicken, eggs and tofu are good sources of protein that can help with muscle repair and healing following a Figure of 8 bandage.
• Fruits and vegetables are also important as they provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to help the body heal itself.
• Foods that are high in healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, avocados and fatty fish can also help with inflammation reduction following a Figure of 8 bandage.
• Whole grains such as oatmeal, quinoa and brown rice provide complex carbohydrates that can give the body sustained energy for healing processes.
• It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to help keep the body functioning properly and to aid in healing processes following a Figure of 8 bandage.

Yes, a Figure of 8 bandage is generally considered to be safe when applied correctly. When properly applied it can provide support and secure dressings in place.However, improper use or application of the bandage can be dangerous as it can put too much pressure on certain areas and potentially cause nerve damage or circulation problems.

No, the Figure of 8 bandage is not painful in itself.

It may cause some minimal discomfort depending on how tight it is applied and the underlying injury or condition for which it is being used.

However, if the bandage becomes too tight, it can lead to pain or even worse complications such as restricted blood flow and tissue damage.

In general, most minor injuries should heal over 1-2 weeks if they are treated with a Figure of 8 bandage. More severe injuries may require more time and additional treatment.

• Skin irritation and discomfort due to the tightness of the bandage.
• Circulation can be impaired if the bandage is too tight, leading to swelling and even tissue death.
• Increased risk of infection due to moisture trapped underneath the bandage.
• Increased pressure on the underlying structures, such as nerves and blood vessels, which can cause pain or numbness in the area.
• Compromised mobility in the area that is wrapped, as well as potential joint stiffness due to lack of movement.

• Remove the bandage after 24 hours.
• Gently clean the wound area with mild soap and water and pat dry with a clean towel.
• Check for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Reapply a new bandage if needed, or leave the wound uncovered if it is healing well.
• Keep the wound area clean and dry at all times to prevent infection and promote healing.
• Monitor for any signs of infection or adverse reactions to the dressing or bandage material and contact your doctor if necessary .

The figure of 8 bandage is an effective way to provide targeted compression to areas of the body and help stabilise injuries. It can be used to provide support while also allowing for easy adjustment when applied and worn correctly. This type of bandage is essential in the everyday practice of medical professionals and a must-have for any first aid kit.