Skillfully applied bandages can be very beneficial, but when carelessly applied they can cause permanent damage to a horse's legs. Care must always be taken when wrapping a leg as not to wrap the bandage too tight and put pressure on the tendon. You should be able to comfortably slip two fingers under the finished bandage. Polo wraps are the safest to use if you've never wrapped before. They offer the most give or stretch so there will be less chance of wrapping too tightly.
Fluids transfer to the unwrapped leg, where they accumulate and cause swelling.
When applying a bandage, never kneel or crouch in front of the horse, always stay to the side of the horse. Be sure to be able to move quickly away from the legs in case the horse panics or strikes. Before wrapping, the bandages must be rolled correctly. The ties or velcro should be folded neatly with the sewn side tucked inwards. Continue rolling until reaching the plain end.