How To Buddy-Tape Toes

Toe sprain, dislocation, or fracture

Structural toe disorders (eg, hallux limitus)

Open fracture

Certain fractures of the big toe (some require fixation)

Skin breakdown due to lack of padding and maceration between toes

Vascular compromise, usually due to an overly tight application

Cotton or gauze for padding

Adhesive tape 1.25 to 2.5 cm (½ to 1 inch)

Sometimes commercially available toe splint

Dislocations should be reduced. Most toe fractures do not require reduction. Fractures of the proximal phalanx of the big toe typically require fixation; buddy-taping is inadequate.

Position the patient seated in a chair or supine on an examination table.

Give the patient adequate analgesia.

Insert cotton padding or gauze between the toes being splinted to prevent skin maceration between the toes.

Apply tape around both toes to bind the injured toe against the uninjured toe.

Check distal sensation and capillary refill.

Supply or prescribe a shoe with a rigid sole (postoperative shoe) to facilitate weight-bearing and ambulation as appropriate.

Consider crutches if weight-bearing causes significant pain.

Arrange or recommend appropriate follow-up.

Have the patient keep the dressing dry to avoid skin breakdown and change the dressing if it becomes wet.

Have the patient elevate the injured limb above the heart while seated or at rest.

Have the patient change the tape and gauze every 2 days.

Tell the patient to apply ice PRICE A fracture is a break in a bone. Most fractures result from a single, significant force applied to normal bone. In addition to fractures, musculoskeletal injuries include Joint dislocations... read more as needed.

Do not tape toes too tightly or apply tape over joints.