Orthopedic technique used for simple (nondisplaced) fractures (or suspected fractures - the treatment is the same) to the phalanges of the lesser toes (i.e. any toe except the big toe).
The technique consists of taping the injured toe loosely together with an adjacent uninjured toe, placing a bit of gauze between the toes to prevent chafing. The patient is usually instructed to wear "hard-nosed", wooden or cast shoes (with ample toe room), while the fracture sets.
Before taping, the injured toe should be examined for any signs of damage to the skin, and for signs of subungual hematoma (which it may be necessary to drain). Crutches are optional.