Bandages

What is it for?

There are exercise or polo wraps, worn under saddle for protection and some support, and stable or standing bandages, worn at rest to keep the legs clean, give some support and limit swelling.

How is it made?

A firm or stretchy wrap that you apply evenly over a pad, with each turn overlapping about half the width and the pad lying flat and wrinkle-free.

When do you use it?

Polo wraps for flatwork and dressage; stable bandages overnight, for travel or for support. Use only bandages made for the purpose.

What to watch for in the fit

• Wrap evenly and not too tight; you should be able to slip about two fingers underneath.

• Always use a smooth pad so the pressure is distributed.

• Do not let the bandage extend beyond the pad.

Take care

A wrongly applied bandage, too tight or with uneven pressure, can restrict blood flow and damage tendons and soft tissue, up to a tendon injury. So learn bandaging hands-on, under the guidance of a vet or experienced person, not from a diagram alone. This is not a standalone step-by-step for beginners.

What is it confused with?

• Bandage pads

  The bandage pads are the underlayer; the bandage is the wrap that goes over them.

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