Buddy wrapping

Buddy wrapping, also called neighbour strapping^[1] or buddy taping, is the act of bandaging a damaged or particularly a fractured finger or toe together with a healthy, uninjured one. The bandage or medical tape is usually stiff, not allowing the digits to move; the healthy digit acts as a splint, keeping the damaged one in a natural position for healing. Rest plays a major role in the healing process. Buddy wrapping may also be used for sprains, dislocations, and other injuries.

Buddy wrapping
Buddy taping

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Buddy-taping toes, using the most suitable adjacent toe to splint the broken toe

This treatment may be performed by a physician or other medical professional in a hospital, orthopedic clinic, or other medical facility. Buddy wrapping may also be used when medical help is not immediately available, for example in the wilderness. Buddy wrapping can be a temporary solution or it can be used as a treatment all by itself.

A layer of absorbent cotton or gauze is placed between the digits to prevent the breakdown of the skin with resultant ulcers and/or infection.^[2] The bandage is applied loosely, in several non-encircling layers. This avoids cutting off the blood flow to the digit that a too-tight wrap can precipitate. If the damaged part is only partly fractured, e.g., a greenstick fracture, the buddy wrapping method may also be used.^[3]

Fractures of the smaller toes are commonly treated by buddy taping.^[4] Padding is used between the toes to keep the space dry^[5] and the toes aligned comfortably. If the toes are less comfortable when buddy-taped, the buddy tape should be removed.^[6]

See also

• Elastic therapeutic tape
• Elastic bandage
• Self-adhering bandage
• Athletic taping

References

1. Darwood, Mary; Holt, Lynda (2008). Dolan, Brian; Holt, Lynda (eds.). Accident & Emergency: Theory Into Practice. Elsevier. p. 100. ISBN 978-0-7020-2684-3.
2. "How To Buddy-Tape Fingers - Injuries; Poisoning". Merck Manuals Professional Edition. Retrieved 2022-03-23.
3. "What is Buddy Wrapping? | Bone and Spine". 6 August 2013.
4. Bica, David; Sprouse, Ryan A.; Armen, Joseph (2016-02-01). "Diagnosis and Management of Common Foot Fractures". American Family Physician. 93 (3): 183–191. ISSN 0002-838X. PMID 26926612.
5. "Broken toe - self-care: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia". medlineplus.gov. US National Library of Medicine. 2020-03-28. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
6. "Broken Toe". HealthLink BC. Archived from the original on 7 November 2021. Retrieved 8 November 2021.