Wrapping a leg with plastic wrap has several uses and purposes. A plastic leg wrap keeps medications and ointments from absorbing into the air or fabrics, relieves muscle pain, tightens and tones skin and improves blood circulation. Learn how to properly wrap a leg with plastic wrap to maximize benefits to skin, muscles and veins and reduce discomfort from sprains and sores.
Gently cleanse and rinse the leg. Pat dry.
Apply ointment to a wound, muscle cream to a sore muscle or sprain, or an exfoliating cream to skin, if desired.
Remove the plastic wrap from its box, but leave it on the roll for easier application.
Starting at the ankle, wrap the plastic up around the leg at an angle, slightly overlapping sections to ensure an airtight wrap. Wrap with slight pressure so that the wrap feels snug. It should not be loose or tight.
Stop wrapping just above or below the knee, depending on how much area of the leg you need to wrap.
Grasp the roll with one hand, using that arm or elbow to hold the wrapping in place against the leg. Cut the plastic away from the roll with the other hand.
Tape the end in place either over the wrap or directly onto skin.
Tips
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Ask a friend or family member for assistance cutting the wrap off the roll if you have trouble doing it one-handed.
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Warm tubes of ointment and cream by placing in hot water for a few minutes before applying to create a deep-penetrating heat therapy.
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Change wraps every few hours and cleanse the area to allow skin to breathe and to prevent buildup of dirt or bacteria.