A broken pinky toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toe fractures. This common injury often results from direct impact, such as stubbing the toe or dropping an object on it. Many minor pinky toe fractures can be managed at home using a technique called “buddy taping.” Buddy taping involves securing the injured toe to an adjacent, healthy toe for support and stability. This method helps immobilize the injured digit, promoting proper alignment and healing and offering some pain relief.
Preparing for Buddy Taping
Before attempting to buddy tape a broken pinky toe, gather supplies: medical tape, soft padding material like cotton balls or gauze, and scissors. Medical tape is specifically designed for skin application, reducing irritation compared to other adhesive tapes. The padding is crucial to prevent skin-on-skin friction and potential blisters between the toes once taped.
Before applying any materials, ensure the foot and toes are thoroughly cleaned and dried. If there are any open wounds, clean the affected area with antiseptic wipes. However, buddy taping is not suitable for all toe injuries. Avoid this method if the toe is severely swollen, visibly deformed, crooked, or if there is an open wound or bone protruding from the skin. Extreme pain, numbness or tingling, or if the toe appears to be at an odd angle also indicate the need for immediate medical attention. These cases require professional medical evaluation, which may include X-rays, casting, or surgery.
Applying the Buddy Tape
For a broken pinky toe, the adjacent fourth toe is typically the best choice for support due to its proximity and similar length. The uninjured toe acts as a natural splint, helping to stabilize the fractured digit.
Place a small amount of soft padding, such as cotton or gauze, between the injured pinky toe and the neighboring fourth toe. This padding prevents skin irritation, chafing, and blisters. Next, take medical tape and wrap it around both toes, starting from the base and working upwards, leaving about a quarter-inch from the tip of the toes uncovered. Apply the tape snugly enough to provide support and stability, but avoid wrapping it too tightly, as this can restrict blood circulation. Wrap the tape around two to three times, ensuring the joint is not covered to allow some mobility.
After taping, check the circulation by pressing on the tips of the taped toes; the color should return quickly, typically within three seconds. If the toes remain pale or feel numb or tingly, the tape is too tight and should be removed and reapplied more loosely.
Ongoing Care and When to See a Doctor
After buddy taping, the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) helps manage pain and swelling. Rest the injured foot by limiting weight-bearing activities, and apply ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, every few hours, ensuring a thin cloth is between the ice and skin. Elevating the foot above heart level also helps reduce swelling.
The tape and padding should be changed regularly, ideally every one to two days, or immediately if they become wet or soiled. This practice helps maintain hygiene, prevents skin maceration, and allows for inspection of the skin for any irritation or signs of infection. Clean and dry the toes thoroughly before reapplying fresh padding and tape.
While buddy taping is effective for minor fractures, certain symptoms indicate the need for professional medical attention. Consult a doctor if pain or swelling worsens or persists for more than a few days, or if you experience numbness, tingling, or discoloration of the toe that does not resolve with tape adjustment. Other concerning signs include the inability to bear weight, visible deformity, or signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, pus, or fever.