Thank you, I just wonder if I should stop using the Coban compression tape then and use the Salonpas patches instead.

Taping (light compression) around the pinky toe has been the best method I have for keeping the swelling down. Sometimes it manages to completely remove the swelling, then after I take the tape off you can almost see the capillaries fill up with blood and the swelling starting within minutes.

I don't think I need any pain meds, I don't have much noticeable inactive pain at all, until I allow the swelling to go out of control by walking or drinking alcohol. Right now I just have a deep itch/tingling in the toe (comes and goes).

I have noticed my gait is off when I do walk. Overextending the toe still seems to cause 'normal' pain - I'm guessing this is just ligament/tendon injury that's persisting.

With the baths I had been using ice bath for 1 min, warm water for 4 mins and alternating. But the warm bath does cause the swelling to increase.