Alexei Volkov
Finger splints are used to treat sprained, broken, or dislocated fingers. They are made of rigid materials like metal or plastic and usually have a cushion of foam or padded fabric to prevent pressure sores on your finger while worn. They are adjustable, usually with Velcro, fabric straps, or tape, and help to stabilize the finger and prevent further damage. It is important to wear a finger splint as often as instructed by a healthcare provider to prevent reinjury or delayed healing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To stabilise and immobilise an injured finger, preventing further damage and supporting recovery |
| Material | Rigid material such as metal or plastic, often with a cushion of foam or padded fabric for comfort |
| Types | Gutter splints, ulnar gutter splints, two-finger splints, stack splints, dynamic splints, static splints, and more |
| Application | Adjustable with Velcro, fabric straps, or tape; should be applied per a healthcare professional's instructions |
| Use | Wear as often as instructed by a healthcare professional; may be worn during the day and night for several weeks or months |
| Maintenance | Keep the splint clean and dry, especially when bathing; cover with a plastic bag or sheet when wet |
| Circulation Check | Squeeze the end of the finger gently for 3 seconds and release; if colour doesn't change from white to pink, the splint is too tight |
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What You'll Learn
Check circulation by squeezing the finger gently
When adjusting a plastic splint for a finger, it is important to check circulation by gently squeezing the finger. This is because a splint that is too tight can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort or damage.
To check circulation, gently squeeze the end of the finger for three seconds and then release. Observe the colour of the finger as you do so. A healthy finger should change from white to pink as blood refills the vessels. If it does not change colour right away, the splint may be too tight and could be restricting circulation. Other signs of poor circulation include numbness, tingling, and pain in the finger. If the splint is causing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact a doctor and adjust or replace the splint.
It is crucial to wear the splint as often as instructed by a healthcare provider to ensure proper healing. However, if the splint causes discomfort or irritation, it is important to seek medical advice and adjust or loosen the splint. This is because a splint that is too tight can restrict blood flow and cause further issues. Therefore, checking circulation by gently squeezing the finger is an important step in ensuring the splint is fitted correctly and comfortably.
Additionally, it is important to keep the splint clean and dry. This can be done by covering it with a plastic bag when bathing or showering. Overall, when adjusting a plastic splint for a finger, checking circulation through gentle finger squeezing is a crucial step to ensure the splint is comfortable and safe for the wearer.
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Keep the splint dry
It is important to keep your finger splint dry at all times. If you need to wash your hands or take a shower, cover the splint with a plastic bag. You can also use a hairdryer or a fan to dry any itchy skin underneath the splint.
If you have been advised to wear your splint while bathing, make sure to cover it with a plastic sheet. If your splint gets wet, dry your finger and replace the splint immediately. You should also ensure that your skin is completely dry before putting the splint back on.
If you are permitted to remove your splint, do so only to wash your hands and replace it immediately afterward. If you have a mallet finger, keep your finger straight and flat on a table while the splint is off.
Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider for wearing and caring for your finger splint.
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Cover splint with a plastic bag when showering
A finger splint is a medical device that stabilizes your finger and holds it in one position. It is used to protect and support your finger after an injury. It is important to wear the splint as often as your provider instructs. If you take it off too frequently, you might reinjure your finger or delay its healing process.
If you have been advised to wear a finger splint, you can remove it when you are showering or bathing. However, it is crucial to keep the splint clean and dry. Cover the splint with a plastic bag when you bathe. You can use any plastic bag, such as a sealable plastic bag, a bread bag, or a small trash bag. Pull the bag over the splint and seal it using medical tape, duct tape, or a rubber band. You can also wrap plastic wrap around the splint to create a second watertight layer. Ensure that there are no gaps where the splint is exposed.
After you finish your shower, remove the plastic bag and pat your hand and the splint dry if needed. Check your finger daily to ensure good circulation. If you notice any unusual colour or if your finger feels numb, tingly, or painful, the splint may be too tight.
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Consult a doctor if the splint is uncomfortable
If you experience discomfort with your finger splint, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. They can assess the fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort and the effectiveness of the treatment.
When wearing a finger splint, it is crucial to monitor your finger's circulation. A simple way to do this is by gently squeezing the end of your finger for 3 seconds and then releasing it. Observe the colour change from white to pink. If your finger does not return to its normal colour promptly, it could indicate that the splint is too tight and restrictive.
Another sign that your splint may require adjustment is if your finger feels numb, tingly, or painful. These sensations could be due to restricted blood flow or improper positioning, which can prolong the healing process or lead to further complications.
It is also important to consult a doctor if the splint has rough edges that irritate your skin. They possess the appropriate tools to trim and smoothen the splint without damaging it. Attempting to modify the splint yourself could result in accidental damage or an ineffective trim, compromising the stability and protection of your injured finger.
Additionally, it is worth noting that finger splints are available in various designs, materials, and sizes. If you are unsure about the suitability of a particular splint, it is always best to seek professional advice. Healthcare professionals can guide you in choosing the most appropriate splint for your specific injury, ensuring optimal comfort and healing.
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Wear the splint as often as instructed
It is important to wear the splint as often as your healthcare provider instructs. This will help your injury heal correctly and as quickly as possible. If you don't wear the splint as often as instructed, you might reinjure your finger or slow down the healing process.
The length of time you'll need to wear a splint depends on the severity of the injury. People usually need to wear a splint for a few weeks, but it could be a month or longer. Your healthcare provider will advise you on how long you need to wear the splint and whether you need to wear it during the day, at night, or both.
You may be able to remove your splint when you're showering or bathing, but it's important to keep the splint clean and dry. Cover the splint with a plastic bag when bathing, and pat your hand and the splint dry if needed.
Check your finger daily to ensure you have good circulation. If your finger turns an unusual colour or feels numb, tingly, or painful, the splint may be too tight. If the splint feels uncomfortable, do not try to trim it yourself. Contact your healthcare provider, and they will adjust it for you.
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Frequently asked questions
Check your circulation by gently squeezing the end of your finger for 3 seconds and then releasing. If the colour of your finger does not change from white to pink right away, your splint may be too tight.
Wear your splint for as long as your doctor advises. It may take up to 8 weeks for your finger to heal, depending on the severity of the injury. Your doctor will tell you when it is okay to stop wearing the splint.
Never try to adjust a splint on your own. If the splint feels uncomfortable, call your doctor and make an appointment. They can adjust the splint for you to make it more comfortable.
