How to Splint a Thumb
- 1). Remove any rings or jewelry on the wrist or fingers. If it is difficult to remove because of swelling, try to use soap as a lubricant or consider a ring cutter to remove it. Rings may cause swelling and tissue damage, so avoid leaving on any jewelry.
- 2). Decide which type of splint is best for your injury. A curved splint is normally used for dislocations and fractures of the bone in the thumb or other finger, while straight splits are normally used for an injured thumb.
- 3). Wash your hand and thumb with a mild soap and dry thoroughly.
- 4). Sit down so that you are comfortable and put your hand so that your thumb is pointing toward the ceiling.
- 5). Put the splint on carefully over your finger and avoid bending or straightening the thumb. If you apply too much pressure or force, you could cause additional injury.
- 6). Wrap three layers of tape around the tip of your thumb and the base of the finger where the lower joint of the thumb is.
- 7). Leave the splint on until your injury heals and replace the tape daily to ensure that it holds.
