Buddy wrapping, also called neighbour strapping[1] or buddy taping, is the act of bandaging a damaged or particularly a fractured finger or toe together with a healthy, uninjured one.
The bandage or medical tape is usually stiff, not allowing the digits to move; the healthy digit acts as a splint, keeping the damaged one in a natural position for healing.
A layer of absorbent cotton or gauze is placed between the digits to prevent the breakdown of the skin with resultant ulcers and/or infection.
This avoids cutting off the blood flow to the digit that a too-tight wrap can precipitate.
[3] Fractures of the smaller toes are commonly treated by buddy taping.