Buddy Tape Splint

Other Names

• Buddy Tape
• Finger Splint
• Buddy Tape Fingers
• Buddy wrapping
• Neighbor Taping

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Background

Demonstration of buddy taping with the cotton padding

Example of white finger tape used to buddy tape

Illustration of buddy taping

Illustration of buddy taping 4th and 5th toe

• Buddy tape splinting involves using adhesive tape by taping two fingers together
  • Theory is that uninjured finger provides support for the injured finger while it heals
  • Can also be used on toes for similar indications

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Indications

Finger/Hand

• Phalanx Fractures of the Hand
  • Buddy taping was compared to splint immobilization of extra-articular pediatric finger fractures. Patient comfort was higher and cost lower in the buddy taping group. The author's concluded non-inferiority of buddy taping.
• Boxers Fracture
  • One study showed no difference between buddy taping and ulnar gutter splinting after 12 weeks
• Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Dislocation
• Distal Interphalangeal Joint Dislocation
• Finger Sprains and Strains

Toe/Foot

• Toe Fracture
• Toe Dislocation

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Contraindications

• Displaced or unstable fractures
• Tendon injuries
• Open fractures

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Procedure

Equipment

• Adhesive tape 1.25 cm (½ inch)
• Cotton Gauze

Preparation

• Wash and dry fingers prior to application

Technique

• Apply tape around both fingers to bind the injured finger against the uninjured finger.
• Use one strip of tape to bind adjacent phalanges proximally
  • Do this between the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints
  • This allows the untaped joints to flex and extend.
• Use a second piece of tape to bind the 2 digits distally between the PIP and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints,
  • Again leave the interphalangeal joints untaped
• Check distal sensation and capillary refill

Pearls and Pitffals

• Optional: Insert cotton padding or gauze between the fingers being splinted
  • This prevent skin maceration between the fingers
  • Ensure there are no folds in the gauze between the fingers.
• Note: Finger dislocations should be Finger Dislocation Reduction prior to beginning
• Can consider digital block if any manipulation, reduction is necessary
• Demonstrate to patient and family so they can re-apply tape as needed as needed
• Be careful not to tape too tightly, restricting circulation

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Aftercare

• Make sure follow up is arranged
• Advise patient to keep dry, change tape if dressing becomes wet

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Complications

• Pain or discomfort
• Restricted circulation

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See Also

• Splinting Main
• Procedures Main
• Finger Pain Main

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