Dealing With Toe Edema: The Art of Toe Bandaging

Background: Although toe swelling has been observed clinically, traditional compression applications do not address. Published literature initially cited toe swelling was secondary to compression wrapping.^1-4

A closer review of compression science concludes that although the bandage may have exacerbated the swelling, it was most likely there and was overlooked^.5 Toe swelling, as with any clinical presentation of swelling occurs due to lymphatic insufficiency.⁶ Clinically, a positive stemmer sign has been shown to have a high sensitivity (92%) to identify lymphatic insufficiency.⁷ There are numerous products available on the market to address toe swelling.

The application of a toe bandage is a simple and cost-effective way to manage toe edema and optimize healing of wounds located on the toes or forefoot area.

Methods: A case series (n=5), with photos before and after, clearing demonstrating the clinical impact of appropriately applied toe bandage to mitigate toe swelling and promote healing of wound on the toe and/forefoot. Specifics of each case will be provided as well as depiction of step-by-step application of a basic toe wrap.

Conclusion: Management of toe and/or forefoot swelling can be achieved with an appropriately applied toe bandage. A toe bandage application facilitates healing of wounds on the toe/forefoot area which is not address with traditional compression applications. Clinicians treating patients with toe swelling and/or wounds located on the toe or forefoot should be trained with the application of a basic toe bandage.