Correct way to tape an injured toe

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It cannot be denied that toe injuries are quite common, whether they are caused by playing certain sports such as football or soccer or simply due to accidents at home or in the workplace. A broken or injured toe does not require the application of casts that is commonly performed on larger limbs since it is only taped. Always remember that taping an injured toe with appropriate first aid techniques will help promote quick and proper healing as well as preventing further injury.

Proper assessment of the damage to the toe

If an individual has an injured toe, you have to assess for any bleeding, open wounds or protruding bones in the area. It is important to note that toes with these injuries would require advanced medical treatment than just taping. You should also make sure that the affected toe can still flex and bend. If this is not possible, it indicates that it is broken and the rest of the foot must also be checked for further injury before the toe is taped.

Straightening the injured toe

Injured toe
If an individual has an injured toe, you have to assess for any bleeding, open wounds or protruding bones in the area.

You have to straighten the injured toe so that it will assume a straight position if possible. This must be done in a slow and gentle manner depending on the severity of the injury. Take note that you have to inform the individual that this can be painful so that he/she is prepared.

Lining up the injured toe

The next step is to line up the injured toe with the toe on the right or left side. Make sure that you will straighten the other toe out so that it is in a side by side position with the affected toe.

Taping the toe

You have to utilize first aid tape that is readily available in any first aid kit. The tape is applied in order to immobilize and stabilized the injured toe. These tapes are usually waterproof and sturdy enough to endure daily wear and tear.

Start taping at the base of the undamaged toe by holding both toes firmly together as the tape is wrapped around both of them. The normal toe will serves as a splint to support and stabilize the injured toe.

Make sure that the tape is wrapped consistently around both toes. This would involve overlapping every layer of the tape slightly over the previous layer. Take note that this will provide even stabilization to the entire length of the toe without causing further damage. The wrapping must be done slowly and gently to smoothen out any wrinkles or bumps as you go.

Continue to wrap up to the ends of both toes. The end of the tape must be secured in place by wrapping it beneath the last layer of the tape on the healthy toe or simply using a small piece of first aid tape to secure the end to the toe.

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