2026 Volume 7 Issue 2 Pages 172-178
Aim: To compare morphological and physical properties of cotton stretch bandages (CSB).
Methods: Five types of CSB (10 cm×4.5 m) with equivalent functionality from different manufacturers were used. Bandage length (unstretched, on elongation, after recovery), thickness, mass, yarn density (warp, weft), shrinkage, elongation, elongation recovery, yarn fineness, yarn twist count, and yarn shrinkage ratio were measured, and differences and relationships were statistically analyzed.
Results: The measured values for each item showed differences by type (p<0.01), except for warp density. Compared with the four foreign-made bandages, the Japanese-made bandage showed higher-level elasticity, weft density, thickness, and mass. Since the results showed that the bandage and yarn shrinkage rates had significant effects on elongation and recovery rates of bandages, it was considered that not only the yarn processing and weaving method, but also the shrinkage technique and process were important.
Conclusion: Since differences in properties were observed in CSB with equivalent functions, understanding the characteristics of each product may provide an option to use different ones depending on the purpose of use and each individual case. However, since there are no official standards regarding bandage use in Japan, such regulations are desired.
