Strapping a dislocated finger typically involves buddy taping it to the adjacent, uninjured finger for support and protection during healing.
Here's a breakdown of how to buddy tape a dislocated finger:
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Seek Medical Attention First: A dislocated finger requires a proper medical evaluation. A healthcare professional needs to reduce the dislocation (put the bones back in place) and assess for any fractures or other damage. Never attempt to reduce a dislocated finger yourself. Strapping is a supportive measure after medical treatment.
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Gather Your Supplies: You will need:
- Medical tape (athletic tape or self-adhering wrap)
- Gauze or padding (optional, for extra comfort)
- Scissors
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Prepare the Fingers: Clean and dry both the injured finger and the adjacent, healthy finger. You can place a small piece of gauze or padding between the fingers where they will touch to prevent skin irritation and maceration.
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Position the Fingers: Gently align the dislocated finger with the healthy finger. The fingers should be close together, but not so tightly that circulation is cut off. The buddy finger acts as a splint.
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Apply the Tape: Use the medical tape to secure the fingers together.
- Start by wrapping the tape around both fingers above the knuckle of the injured finger. Apply the tape firmly, but not so tightly that it restricts circulation.
- Apply another piece of tape below the knuckle of the injured finger.
- A third piece of tape in the middle might be beneficial for added stability.
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Check Circulation: After applying the tape, check the circulation in the injured finger. You can do this by gently squeezing the tip of the finger. If the color returns quickly (within a few seconds), circulation is good. If the finger remains pale or bluish, the tape is too tight and needs to be loosened.
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Replace the Tape Regularly: Change the tape daily, or more often if it gets wet or dirty. Inspect the skin for any signs of irritation or breakdown. Reapply fresh gauze or padding as needed.
Alternative: Double Tubigrip
An alternative to tape is using a double layer of Tubigrip bandage. This tubular bandage can be slipped over the fingers to provide compression and support, acting as a splint. It might be more comfortable for some than tape.
Important Considerations:
- Follow Doctor's Instructions: Always adhere to your doctor's specific recommendations for treating your dislocated finger. They may have specific instructions about taping, splinting, and activity levels.
- Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus) and seek medical attention if they occur.
- Avoid Overuse: While buddy taping provides support, it's important to avoid overusing the injured finger. Rest is crucial for healing.
- Early Movement: Gentle range-of-motion exercises, as directed by your doctor or physical therapist, are important to prevent stiffness.
By following these steps and your doctor's instructions, you can effectively strap a dislocated finger to promote healing and prevent further injury.
