How To Apply A Stable Bandage

Step 1: General uses of a Stable bandage

A stable bandage is used to support, to protect and for warmth. It is also used to hold on a dressing, when travelling and to control the inflammatory process, when a leg is inflamed or swollen.

Step 2: You will need

Step 3: Roll the bandage

Before beginning to apply the bandage, we must first ensure that it is correctly rolled. Begin by rolling the bandage onto the tapes or Velcro fastening, so that they are inside the roll. Then continue to roll it up firmly and straight.

Step 4: Place the padding

It is important to check that the leg is very clean, meaning that there is nothing that will cause friction or sores, before applying the bandage. Now place the padding onto the sides of the leg. Never place it on the front or back of the tendons, as this will cause pressure points. Finally, check that there are no creases in your padding.

Step 5: Apply the bandage

To apply a stable bandage for inflammation or support purposes, place the beginning of the bandage, just below your horse's knee at angle of roughly 45 degrees. Remember to keep the actual roll on top. Wind the bandage around the leg just once. Then carefully fold back the diagonal flap over the bandage that you've just rolled. Proceed to wind the bandage down the leg, with even turns and constant pressure, all the way down to the fetlock and into the heel. Aim to get a small cross over the point at the front of the pastern, just above the hoof. Then work the bandage back up the leg until the end. Secure it, by placing the two Velcro's fastenings together.
The bandage has now been correctly applied!

Caution! Be very careful to always apply even, constant, pressure, when rolling. If the tension is too tight, it will damage the tendons. never apply a stable bandage without padding! And never over the knee point! For travelling purposes, the padding should come well down over the coronet band, the white ring at the top of the hoof and above the knee for maximum protection.

Step 6: Removing the bandage

Undo the Velcro fastenings, then unwind the bandage, quickly passing it from one hand to the other. Once the bandage has been removed, take off the padding and gently rub the leg to aid the circulation.