Smith & Nephew Medium Crepe Bandage (10cmx4m)

Smith & Nephew Medium Crepe Bandage (10cmx4m) is a woven cotton and elastic bandage. The crepe weave gives the bandage its characteristic stretch and recoil, allowing it to conform to the shape of a limb while still allowing some movement, unlike a rigid strapping.

At 10cm wide and 4m long when unstretched, this is a medium-weight bandage sized for smaller to medium areas such as the wrist, forearm, ankle, or foot. It is a reusable, washable bandage rather than a single-use sterile item, and, unless the specific pack states otherwise, should be treated as non-sterile.

The crepe weave is created by combining cotton (or a cotton/viscose blend) with elasticated thread woven through the fabric, which gives the bandage its stretch and its tendency to spring back toward its original length. When wrapped around a limb with light, even tension, this elastic recoil applies gentle, consistent compression against the area it is wrapped around.

Because the compression is generated by the fabric’s own elastic recoil rather than a rigid splint, the amount of pressure depends heavily on how the bandage is applied — an evenly wrapped bandage with overlapping turns applies a gradient of pressure from below upward, while an unevenly tensioned or overly tight wrap can concentrate pressure in a way that restricts blood flow.

Start wrapping the bandage below the area being supported (for example, at the base of the fingers or toes when bandaging a hand or foot) and work upward in overlapping spiral turns, each covering about half of the previous turn, applying even and moderate tension throughout. Secure the end with the bandage’s own fastening clip, tape, or by tucking and pinning it, avoiding knots directly over a bony area or a fresh injury site.

After applying the bandage, check that fingers or toes below the wrap remain a normal colour, are not unusually cold, numb, or tingling, and can still move — these are signs that the bandage may be too tight and should be re-wrapped more loosely. Remove or loosen the bandage at night unless advised otherwise, and re-apply in the morning if continued support is needed.

Not applicable — this is not a medicine. Use one bandage per limb or area being supported, applying only enough tension to give firm, comfortable support.

As a woven fabric bandage rather than a chemically active product, Smith & Nephew Medium Crepe Bandage does not have a strict pharmaceutical shelf life, but any printed best-before or expiry date on the pack should be followed. Discard a bandage that has become worn, frayed, has lost its elasticity, or is visibly damaged, as it will no longer provide reliable support.

Store in a clean, dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, sharp objects, and moisture. If washed for reuse, follow the care instructions on the packaging (typically a gentle hand wash or delicate machine cycle), allow it to air dry fully, and re-roll it neatly before storing, as prolonged dampness can affect the elastic threads over time.

• Common: not applicable to the bandage material itself when applied correctly, as it contains no active ingredient.
• Common: mild, temporary skin marking or pressure lines where the bandage overlaps, usually fading soon after removal.
• Serious: numbness, tingling, increasing pain, or a change in skin colour (pale, blue, or very dark) below the bandage indicates it may be too tight and requires prompt loosening and, if it does not resolve quickly, medical assessment.

• Do not apply too tightly — over-tight wrapping can restrict blood circulation and cause numbness, tingling, or discoloration of the fingers or toes.
• Do not use on individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to the fabric materials used.
• Not intended as the sole treatment for a suspected fracture, dislocation, severe sprain, or significant swelling — these should be assessed by a doctor first.
• Avoid wrapping directly over an open, unprotected wound; a suitable primary dressing should be placed underneath first.
• Loosen or remove the bandage immediately if pain, numbness, tingling, or colour change develops below the wrap.

• Not applicable — this is not a medicine.

• Wrap with even, moderate tension — the bandage should feel snug and supportive, not painfully tight.
• Start below the injury and work upward in overlapping spiral turns for graduated support.
• Check finger or toe colour, warmth, and sensation shortly after applying and periodically afterward.
• Loosen or remove the bandage before sleeping unless a doctor has advised otherwise.
• Hand wash and air dry the bandage between uses to preserve its elasticity.
• Replace the bandage once it becomes stretched out, frayed, or no longer springs back to shape.

Precautions: This bandage should be applied with even, moderate tension, never so tightly that it impairs circulation. It is not a substitute for professional assessment of a fracture, ligament tear, or serious injury.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Seek medical attention if there is suspected fracture or dislocation, inability to bear weight or use the limb, severe or worsening pain, significant swelling or bruising, or if numbness, tingling, or colour change persists despite loosening the bandage. A pharmacist can also advise on correct bandaging technique or an appropriate bandage size.