Your question was: Why and under what circumstances is it better to prescribe latex-free Thera-Band bands over standard latex Thera-Band bands?
Our experts said: The regular Thera-Band resistive bands and tubing contain natural rubber latex. Latex allergies occur in a small percentage of the population (about 5-10%). When patients indicate latex allergy or sensitivity, they should use the latex-free bands. Also, patients with spina bifida tend to be more at-risk for latex allergy. Anyone using the latex bands or tubing that experiences an allergic reaction (such as redness or swelling on the skin near the band) should use the latex-free bands.