How to Buddy Tape a Finger

Examine the Injured Finger

Buddy taping can be used for minor finger injuries such as sprains or strains. Although doctors sometimes use buddy taping for minor fractures, they only do so after the finger has been X-rayed and they are confident that the fracture will heal normally.

If there isn't an open wound, look to see if the finger is deformed in any way. If the finger is bent at an abnormal angle, has a visible protrusion, or is severely swollen, go to the nearest emergency department.

Things like a ​mallet finger (in which the top of the finger bends abnormally toward the palm) or a dislocated finger should not be treated at home.

Finger injuries with no obvious deformity can be immobilized with buddy taping. This helps stabilize the finger and prevents further aggravation of the injury.

Use Medical Cloth Tape

Buddy taping is best done with medical cloth tape. Medical cloth tape is woven in such a way that it can be easily torn along either crosswise or lengthwise. It is also waterproof and has less "give" than other, less-sturdy tapes.

Medical tape can be cut lengthwise to fit. Joints nearer to the tip of the finger may require a narrower piece of tape than those closer to the knuckle.

You can create whatever width you need by starting a small tear at the end of the tape. Once you've done that, the tape will continue to come off the roll in whatever width you've created.

Tape Between Joints

Cut or tear each piece of tape long enough to encircle the injured and adjacent finger.

Apply one piece of tape between the first and second joints, and place another between the second and third joints (as pictured above).

The pieces need to be as wide as possible to ensure comfort and stability but still be narrow enough not to cover the joints.

Wrap the tape firmly but not so tight that it causes the fingers to swell, turn colors, or become numb. If this happens, remove the tape and try again with a new piece of tape.

If done properly, the injured finger can still flex and extend so that you can grip things, but it won't be able to twist or move side-to-side.

Buddy Taping Ring and Pinkie Fingers

Taping the pinkie finger can be tricky because it is much shorter than the adjacent ring finger.

Even so, if either of these two fingers is injured, it is best to tape them together. Doing so ensures better functionality until the injury heals. If you tape the ring finger to the middle finger, it will be harder to grip things.

To properly buddy tape a ring and pinkie finger, you will have to angle the pieces of tape. It can take a few tries to get it right. Don't be afraid to peel off the tape and start again if things don't look or feel right. Tape is cheap.

Possible Complications

Buddy taping is a common way to treat finger and toe injuries, but there are a few drawbacks and concerns to be aware of. These include:

• Irritation: Tape, even medical tape, can irritate sensitive skin. Applying a little moisturizer to the skin and letting it dry before taping may help reduce the irritation.
• Pressure sores between fingers: To avoid this, un-tape the fingers at least once daily and allow them to breathe for several minutes. You can also place a piece of gauze between the fingers to reduce pressure.
  
• Skin infection: If there is an open wound or sore on the finger. buddy taping may cause an infection due to the added moisture and warmth. If you have any signs of skin infection (including pain, swelling, redness, or a pus-like discharge), call your doctor.