Different types of finger splints in 2023: For adults and kids

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Finger splints are classed as medical equipment people can wear to immobilize their injured fingers and aim to prevent further damage. There are various types of finger splints, each treating a different condition, and they come in various sizes and materials.

This article explores the effectiveness of finger splints, the types a person can buy online, and the features people may consider before making a purchase. The article also offers some safety tips and how a person can use this medical equipment for a child.

A quick look at the 5 best finger splints of 2023

• Best for mallet finger: Mcvcoyh Buddy Splint Tape
• Best for size variety: FingerPress Static Progressive Finger Straightening Splint
• Best breathable: BBTO Finger Splints
• Best for cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s disease: Semme Dynamic Finger Splints
• Best for children: BodyMoves 5 Finger Splint

An orthosis is the correction of disorders of the limbs or spine with the help of braces and other devices to reestablish proper alignment or provide support. Healthcare professionals refer to a brace, splint, or similar device as an orthotic.

Orthotics such as finger splints can protect joints by immobilizing them, reducing pain and swelling while helping acute injuries heal. They can also prevent injuries and facilitate proper joint function.

Arthritis

A 2018 review of studies into treating and managing primary arthritis in the finger and thumb joints, found that orthosis treatments, or finger splints, may help reduce pain and improve pinch strength.

The review’s authors did not find any significant difference between the benefits of custom or ready-to-use orthotic devices.

Healthcare professionals do not recommend finger splints as a standalone treatment for arthritis. Rather, they suggest using them in tandem with other management techniques, such as physical therapy and medication.

Mallet finger

Doctors often recommend splinting when someone has an injured finger, such as a mallet finger. This type of injury occurs when a person injures the tendon that straightens the finger or thumb. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) notes that finger splints can help keep the finger straight and stable as it heals.

According to the AAOS, people must wear it continuously for 8 weeks, including while bathing. After bathing, a person must remove the splint and allow it to dry. While it dries, they have to keep their finger straight to avoid prolonged healing time.

Authors of a 2014 study recommend that a person with a mallet finger wear a splint continuously for 6 weeks and then for an additional 2–6 weeks during sleep. They also note that healthcare professionals should work with the person to teach them how to change the splint and check for signs of skin irritation.

In a 2017 study, researchers note that any of the various types of splints are equally effective for treatment. However, they also point out that a doctor may recommend surgery if a person does not comply with splinting instructions, the injury is more severe, or the person works with their hands.

There are four types of finger splints:

• Buddy splints: These involve two fingers taped together. People use buddy splints when they have a strained finger — for example, due to a jamming injury. This type of splint is not suitable for fractured fingers.
• Static splints: These hold a joint in a specific position, either completely straight or slightly bent. People can find metal and foam static splints at local pharmacies, which are available over the counter. However, people can also use custom-made ones that use moldable plastics, which help treat repetitive use injuries, tendon damage, and fractures.
• Stack splints: They come in different sizes, and they treat the tip of a finger. They fit over the end of the finger and go down past the first joint to hold the finger up straight so it does not bend. These finger splints use plastic with holes in them to promote airflow.
• Dynamic splints: They consist of plastic, foam, and metal and offer a prolonged stretch for stiff joints. Also, they are suitable to wear at night or when a person is resting.

The features a person may want to consider when buying a finger splint include:

• Size: A person should check whether the finger splint supports their finger size.
• Conditions and design: Finger splints come in various designs and shapes to help treat different conditions. Individuals should check which finger splints are suitable for their injury. Many manufacturers will list what they believe the splint will work for. When in doubt, a person should consult a healthcare professional about what type of splint will be most suitable for them.
• Material: Materials that companies use can vary greatly between products and may include latex-free options, breathable materials, plastics, rubbers, and metal. The materials can affect both comfort and durability of the splint.
• Ease of adjustment: This helps secure the splint to immobilize the finger and allows the user to wear the splint on either hand.

Medical News Today, chooses products that meet the following criteria:

• Condition-specific: MNT chooses products that would benefit specific health conditions. For example, osteoarthritis.
• Sizes: MNT chooses manufacturers offering a wide range of sizes.
• Materials: MNT chooses products that use high quality fabrics and that the manufacturer lists any potential allergens, such as latex.
• Price: MNT chooses products to suit a range of budgets.

Below are some finger splints for a person to consider.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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Best for mallet finger: Mcvcoyh Buddy Splint Tape

Price: Around $8

According to Mcvcoyh, its splint tape works for individuals with a sprain, strain, dislocation, swelling, or jammed finger. It may also work for people who have mallet finger.

The package contains eight wraps that use washable, latex-free, eco-friendly, medical-grade fiber. The material can absorb some impact and help keep the fingers straight.

People can customize the splint tape to wear on either their fingers or toes.

Before using this product, a person should consult their doctor or healthcare professional to ensure it is suitable for their needs.

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Best for size variety: FingerPress Static Progressive Finger Straightening Splint

Price: Around $80

This FingerPress static splint comes with a warning about using it under the supervision of a hand therapist or surgeon.

The company claims the design helps correct flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint, in which a person may experience difficulty straightening the fingers due to overuse, injury, or arthritis.

The company states the device can help straighten the finger through gradual changes in the support.

The device is available in multiple sizes.

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Best breathable: BBTO Finger Splints

Price: Around $11

BBTO offers ten different splints to fit every finger. They provide breathable support and correction for people with various issues, including cracked fingertips, mallet finger, osteoarthritis, finger stiffness, and dislocation.

Some Amazon reviews note the fabric fasteners used to attach the splints to the fingers are not adequate to hold the splints in place, particularly when wet. Some reviewers recommend using waterproof adhesive tape to fix the issue.

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Best for cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s disease: Semme Finger Splints

Price: Around $10

Semme Finger Splints use a coil to help keep the fingers in a natural position. According to the company, they are suitable for individuals with cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, and muscle tension.

The design of the splints offers stability and protection and allows a person to perform exercises to help strengthen their fingers while wearing the splint.

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Best for children: BodyMoves 5 Finger Splints

Price: Around $16

BodyMoves offers these finger splints for men, women, and children. They can be a good option for those who engage in physical activity.

The fabrics are nylon and neoprene, and available in one size. They also come in five different colors.

People may also use these finger splints if they have a mallet finger or ligament tears, and according to the manufacturer, they are breathable and easy to put on and remove.

Before using this product, a person should consult their doctor or healthcare professional to ensure it is suitable for their needs.

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Below is a comparison of the products in this article.

According to the AAOS, people with itchy skin who cannot remove the splint can use a hair dryer or fan’s cool air to ease their symptoms.

Individuals should cover their splint with a plastic sheet before taking a shower, as the splint needs to remain dry.

Those who can take off the splint should ensure that the skin is dry before putting the splint back on.

The AAOS also notes that people should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the following:

• increased or severe pain
• a tight splint
• difficulty moving the fingers
• numbness
• an unpleasant smell coming from the splint
• burning or stinging

An injury or health condition may sometimes mean a child should wear a finger splint.

However, a parent or caregiver should check with a pediatrician before using a splint on the child, as treatment with a splint may not be appropriate.

For example, according to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), children may not require treatment if they have a trigger finger, as it often resolves on its own over time. Trigger finger is a condition in which the finger is stuck in a bent position and causes pain and stiffness.

However, splints and hand stretches may help improve the child’s symptoms.

If a child has a fracture, the NHS states that doctors may recommend a splint or buddy loops to keep the bone in place. Further advice may also include some safe hand exercises at home.

A parent or caregiver should use care when removing the child’s splint for washing or other reasons. When they do remove it, they should rest the child’s finger on a flat surface to help keep it stable and in place.

If a child with mallet finger has blood beneath the nail, a parent or caregiver should seek immediate medical attention. The American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) states that the finger can become deformed if an individual does not receive immediate treatment.

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) advises that people may have to see a doctor for some conditions affecting the hands, including broken or fractured fingers. Signs may include swelling, pain, and moving difficulty.

It recommends visiting the emergency room if any of the following occur:

• The bone is visible through a cut.
• The finger or thumb is numb.
• The skin is blue.
• A person is unable to move a part of their finger.
• A person suspects torn ligaments or tendons.

Below are some questions relating to the types of finger splints.

How do I know if I need a finger splint?

A person may need a finger splint if they have continual finger pain or finger pain that comes and goes. Individuals may also find them useful if they have numbness and tingling caused by other health conditions such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis (MS).

What is a static finger splint?

Static finger splints hold the joints in one specific position and may be a good option for those with damaged tendons or fractures.

What is a dynamic finger splint?

A dynamic splint supports joint stiffness and does not interfere with an individual’s everyday tasks. They can also wear them while resting.

Finger splints are a type of medical equipment that can benefit individuals who have an injured finger. Finger splints prevent further damage, provide stabilization, and can help treat various injuries, such as damaged tendons and fractures.

People can buy finger splints from online providers or at a local pharmacy. However, they should check with a doctor first to learn more about which device they need for their condition.

A parent or caregiver of a child with an injured finger should contact a doctor right away so that the finger does not become deformed over time.

Mallet finger – aftercare Information | Mount Sinai

Baseball finger – aftercare; Drop finger – aftercare; Avulsion fracture – mallet finger – aftercare

More About Your Injury

Tendons attach muscles to bones. The tendon that attaches to the tip of your finger bone on the back side helps you straighten your fingertip.

Mallet finger occurs when this tendon:

• Is stretched or torn
• Pulls a piece of bone away from the rest of the bone (avulsion fracture)

Mallet finger most often occurs when something hits the tip of your straightened finger and bends it down with force.

What to Expect

Wearing a splint on your finger to keep it straight is the most common treatment for mallet finger. You may need to wear a splint for different lengths of time.

• If your tendon is only stretched, not torn, it should heal in 4 to 6 weeks if you wear a splint all the time.
• If your tendon is torn or pulled off the bone, it should heal in 6 to 8 weeks of wearing a splint all the time. After that, you will need to wear your splint for another 3 to 4 weeks, at night only.

If you wait to start treatment or do not wear the splint as you are told, you may have to wear it longer. Surgery is rarely needed except for more severe fractures.

Your splint is made of hard plastic or aluminum. A trained professional should make your splint to make sure it fits correctly and your finger is in the right position for healing.

• Your splint should be snug enough to hold your finger in a straight position so that it does not droop. But it should not be so tight that it cuts off blood flow.
• You should keep your splint on unless your doctor tells you that you can take it off. Each time you take it off and bend your finger tip, it can lengthen your recovery time.
• If your skin is white when you take off your splint, it may be too tight.

Activity

You will likely be able to return to your normal activities or sports, as long as you wear your splint all the time.

Self-care at Home

Be careful when you take off your splint to clean it.

• Keep your finger straight the whole time the splint is off.
• Letting your fingertip droop or bend may mean you will have to wear your splint even longer.

When you shower, cover your finger and splint with a plastic bag. If they get wet, dry them after your shower. Keep your finger straight at all times.

Using an ice pack can help with pain. Apply the ice pack for 20 minutes, every hour you are awake for the first 2 days, then for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 times daily as needed to reduce pain and swelling.

For pain, you can use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), or acetaminophen (Tylenol). You can buy these pain medicines at the store.

• Talk with your health care provider before using these medicines if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or have had stomach ulcers or internal bleeding in the past.
• Do not take more than the amount recommended on the bottle or by your provider.

Follow-up

When it is time for your splint to come off, your provider will examine how well your finger has healed. Swelling in your finger when you are no longer wearing the splint may be a sign that the tendon has not healed yet. You may need another x-ray of your finger.

If your finger has not healed at the end of treatment, your provider may recommend another 4 weeks of wearing the splint.

When to Call the Doctor

Call your provider if:

• Your finger is still swollen at the end of your treatment time
• Your pain gets worse at any time
• The skin of your finger changes color
• You develop numbness or tingling in your finger

Kamal RN, Gire JD. Tendon injuries in the hand. In: Miller MD, Thompson SR, eds. DeLee, Drez, & Miller’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 73.

Strauch RJ. Extensor tendon injury. In: Wolfe SW, Pederson WC, Kozin SH, Coshen MS, eds. Green’s Operative Hand Surgery. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 5.

Last reviewed on: 6/8/2022

Reviewed by: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Watch out for your fingers! How to apply a transport splint for a fracture | Healthy life | Health

07/26/2016 00:04

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

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Not plaster, but…

This year my son fell in the country and hit his index finger very hard. Before going to the hospital, I made him a fixing bandage from improvised materials. The design did not prevent him from undergoing an examination and taking a picture, and the trauma doctor said that it was done correctly.

Photo: From the personal archive / Andrey Dyomkin

Materials: a lid from a plastic food container, a fragment of a wooden lath, a band-aid.

Photo: From the personal archive / Andrey Dyomkin

I realized that for a person with a similar injury, the most comfortable would be a splint in the form of a “shell” of two identical halves, made along the length and width of the finger (measurements were taken on a healthy hand). Since the plastic bends easily, I reinforced it on the inside with a slightly smaller piece of wooden plank. I connected all the details with a plaster, after which I carefully fixed it on my finger. The bone has healed well!

Photo: From the personal archive / Andrey Dyomkin

Doctor’s comment

Boards and other building materials, thick magazines folded several times to stiffen a blanket or towel can be used as transport tires. In case of a fracture of the phalanx of the finger on the hand, the simplest immobilization will be to fasten the damaged finger to the adjacent one with a bandage or plaster. So that the fingers do not bend, you can bandage a ruler, a board, a piece of plastic – any hard object under the bandage. In case of a fracture of the nail or middle phalanx, it is enough to fix the finger itself, as the reader did, but if the injury is closer to the palm, then you will have to extend the splint to the hand. If there are wounds, the tire should not cover them.

Rules for applying a transport splint:

• is applied to the limb in the same position as it was at the time of injury;
• should provide immobility in two joints adjacent to the injury site – above and below the fracture site;
• should not impair the blood supply to the limb – it is checked by the pulse on the arteries below the injury site, by the temperature of the fingers of the limbs and their sensitivity.

Fracture suspected: what to do?

Relative signs of a fracture are pain that increases with an increase in axial load on the injured limb, hemorrhage (hematoma) in the area of ​​injury and the inability to use the injured arm or leg. And if there is an unnatural position of the limb, mobility in the place where there is no joint, and unusual bulges or depressions at the site of injury, a crunch heard or felt by the hand in the injured place, then there is definitely a fracture.

Of course, seek medical attention without delay. However, before leaving for the hospital, you need to provide first aid to the victim. This will alleviate pain, slow down the growth of edema and help avoid additional damage to soft tissues, blood vessels and nerves by bone fragments. If possible, do not give the victim any pain medication before consulting with a healthcare professional.

How to Stop Bleeding

Normal bleeding from a cut or sore can be stopped by covering the wound with a sterile dressing and applying even pressure to the wound, being careful not to cause severe pain, for 10 minutes. After the bleeding has stopped, apply a pressure bandage to the wound.

Three rules of first aid for a fracture

1. Immobility. Transport rail needs to be attached.

2. Cold Place an ice pack or cold water on the injury site for 10 to 20 minutes.

3. Elevated limb position. Wrist should be bandaged with a scarf, handkerchief, etc.

See also:

• First aid for injuries: what to do with bruises and fractures →
• Fell, woke up – cast. How to help with a “winter” injury →
• First aid: what to do with a fracture, dislocation and sprain →

first aid broken bones

Next article

You may also be interested in

• Tailbone injury: how to provide first aid and recognize a fracture

• Support for leg injury. How to choose crutches?

• Fragile age: causes of fractures in adolescents

• Fracture of the nose: what mistakes are important to avoid in case of injury

• Fracture on level ground. Why do bones become brittle

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5 Ways to Splint Your Trigger Finger

Stenosing tendovaginitis, commonly known as trigger finger, is a fairly common disorder that can cause an uncomfortable locking of the knuckles or thumb, or a popping sensation when the knuckles are flexed. Although injections or even surgery can be used to treat a trigger finger, doctors often recommend splinting the affected finger to help the tendon heal more easily. Under the guidance of a doctor, you can splint your finger yourself using one of several recommended methods.

Steps

Method one of 5: Trigger finger confirmation and treatment

1. one Visit your doctor. If you hear or feel a crackling or popping/feeling when you extend your finger or thumb, it’s a good bet you have a trigger finger. However, it is vital that this diagnosis be medically confirmed, especially if you have not previously had the condition. You need to rule out other possibly serious conditions.

   • Your fingers are stretched and flexed by tendons, which are essentially flexible bands that stretch and retract to move attached bones. They are protected and lubricated by tendon sheaths (mostly tubes). If the tendon sheath becomes inflamed (due to repeated use or other disease), it can narrow and cause the tendon to scrape or even get stuck in place, causing the trigger finger to lock, pop, and crackle.
   • If you are female and/or over 40 and have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, this may make you more susceptible to finger snaps. However, it most commonly affects people who use repetitive grasping motions with their arm(s), such as carpenters, farmers, factory workers, and musicians.
   • It is important to see a doctor to diagnose trigger finger because sometimes people mistake a fracture or dislocation for this condition. Your doctor can determine the severity and appropriate treatment of your condition, as well as rule out potentially dangerous infections that may occur at the site of inflammation.

2. 2 Discuss treatment options. Trigger finger treatment can range from rest to surgery, depending on the severity. Splinting is a common first-line treatment, especially for milder forms of the disease.

   • Studies show that splinting for about six weeks is about as effective as a cortisone shot in the joint, another common trigger finger treatment.
   • There are several types of splints, and you can splint your finger all the time or just when you’re resting. Talk to your doctor about the most appropriate treatment option for you.

3. 3 Make sure you can and should fit tires yourself. Before trying to splint a finger, talk to your doctor that you can and should splint the affected finger(s) yourself. Self-medication without proper medical advice is not recommended.

   • Temporarily splint your finger until you receive proper medical attention. However, you should not engage in long-term splinting on your own initiative.
   • Improper or prolonged splinting may cause joint damage, blood flow obstruction and/or skin infections.

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Method 2 of 5: Apply Buddy Splints

1. one Know when to use a buddy splint. This splinting method is often used for trigger finger sprains or joint dislocations. Buddy splinting is not suitable for unstable joints and/or broken fingers.

   • Buddy splint connects two fingers, sticking them together like a buddy. The fingers are fixed at a point that is above and at a point below the affected joint.
   • Please note: Consult your physician before proceeding with long-term splinting of an obvious index finger or any other condition.

2. 2 Prepare the necessary materials. Before splinting a partner, you will need to collect some materials. You will need:

   • Scissors. You will need scissors to cut off the medical tape and cut off pieces of wood if necessary.
   • Two tongue depressants or ice cream sticks. Any wood thick enough to support a finger will do. You can usually find tongue depressants at any local drug store – just make sure they support the full length of your finger.
   • Medical tape. This will secure the wooden splint to your fingers. Micropore Tape is simple and gentle on sensitive skin. If you need a very tacky tape, you can purchase Medipore or Durapore instead.
     • If you don’t have tape at home, you can use 4″ to 5″ thin strips of fabric to secure the splint; however, it is preferable to use medical tape. You will need a half-inch wide fabric tape, which can be found in nearby pharmacies.

3. 3 Determine which two fingers to put together. If your index finger is not broken or injured, do not use it. This is your most useful finger and you don’t want to get in the way of the tire unless it’s necessary. If the middle finger is affected by the trigger finger, choose the ring finger as a partner.

   • You want your arm to be as mobile as possible. If you can make friends with your ring finger or little finger, do it. You will feel less discomfort if your index and/or middle fingers are free.

4. 4 Place the splint under your index finger. Be sure to cover the entire length of the affected finger. After placing one tongue depressor (or similar device) under the finger, you must place the other on top of the finger. Usually your finger is in the middle of a wooden stick sandwich.

   • Cut the wood to size so it won’t snag/destabilize the tire when it’s in place.
   • You can align the splint with simple tape, but using a structural support such as wooden sticks makes the splint much more durable and efficient.
   • Just put a splint on the injured finger – the partner’s finger can be left alone.

5. 5 Take the tape. Use scissors to cut two pieces of tape, each measuring 10 inches (25 cm). Here’s how to wrap your finger:

   • Wrap the first piece of tape around the trigger finger between the first and second knuckles.
   • Wrap a piece of tape around your friend’s finger and wrap it tightly until the tape runs out.
   • Repeat between the second and third knuckles of the affected finger and then around both fingers. If your little finger (little finger) is affected, you should wrap it around the end of your finger, which will be between the second and third knuckles of the ring finger.

6. 6 Check the circulation of the friend and the affected finger. Pinch the nail of each finger for approximately two seconds. Will it turn pink again after a couple of seconds? If so, then good. The circulation is what you want. With this, your tire is ready.

   • If it takes more than two seconds, there is not enough blood in your fingers because the splint is too tight. In this situation, it is best to remove and apply a partner’s splint.

7. 7 Wear the splint for four to six weeks or as directed by your doctor. In some cases, the trigger finger may take two to three weeks to heal. However, the average time is slightly longer. Ultimately it depends on the extent and severity of inflammation of the tendons of the affected finger.

   • If you are lucky, your doctor will recommend that you only wear the splint at night or during rest. This is much less inconvenient than solid splinting.
   • Whether the splint is always or only occasionally, avoid using an injured hand (and especially an injured finger) as much as possible. Immobilization is the key to a quick recovery.
   • If the tire (and band) is dirty or loose, replace the tire with a new one.
   • If you do not feel better after this time, see your doctor again. He or she will conduct an additional assessment and give your finger a proper treatment.

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Method 3 of 5: Using Static Buses

1. one Know when to use a static bus. Static splints support, protect and straighten injured fingers with a suitable piece of metal, plastic, etc. They are used in the case of a trigger finger to hold the joint in place whether it is slightly bent or completely misaligned. Since proper fit is the key to a static splint, it is best to accurately measure the length and diameter of the affected toe before choosing a splint.

   • Static splints are available without a prescription from pharmacies and supermarkets. They are made from base metal, plastic and foam.
   • Please note (again): check with your doctor first before using a static splint for anything less than short-term protection. Among other things, your doctor can help make sure that a splint is the right type, size, and fit for your injury.

2. 2 Slide the splint onto the trigger pin. Straighten the injured finger while supporting it with the other hand. Slowly slide the static bar along the underside of the trigger finger until it snaps into place.

   • Make sure the static splint is fully seated and the finger is really straight. If the finger is slightly bent forward or backward, this can lead to the development of ulcers on the joint.

3. 3 Cut the tape into two 25 cm pieces. Wrap the first piece of tape tightly between the first and second trigger knuckles until the tape runs out.

   • Repeat these steps between the second and third knuckles of the affected finger until the tape runs out.

4. 4 Check the circulation of the affected finger. Do this by pinching the nail for about two seconds. If the nail returns to a pinkish appearance within one to two seconds, then it has good circulation.

   • If this takes more than two seconds, there is not enough blood flow because the splint is too tight. Removing and refitting the splint is the best option.

5. 5 Use the splint for four to six weeks. This is the average time it takes for the trigger finger to heal. For some people, it heals in as little as two to three weeks; it depends on the degree and severity of tendon inflammation. Be sure to change the tape twice a day or as needed.

   • Depending on your injury and doctor’s recommendations, you may only need to use the splint during sleep/rest. This is certainly more comfortable, but permanent splinting is likely to provide better protection and healing.
   • When the bar and band become dirty and dirty, replace them with a new one.
   • If trigger finger does not go away after four to six weeks, you should contact your primary care physician for further evaluation and treatment.

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Method 4 of 5: Use Stop Bars

1. one Know when to use a stacking bar. These specialized preformed splints are used when the joint closest to the fingertip (called the distal interphalangeal joint [DIP]) is damaged or cannot straighten on its own.

   • Stack tires (one common brand is known as Stax tires) come in a variety of sizes. They are designed to be worn over the DIP joint to prevent flexion while still allowing the joint at the middle of the finger (proximal interphalangeal joint [PIP]) to flex.
   • Stacking rails are usually made of plastic with holes for ventilation. These can be found in pharmacies or grocery stores and you can try placing them there before purchasing.
   • Please note (again): despite their availability and relative convenience, it is always best to check with your doctor before using stack splints to treat trigger finger or another condition (such as hammer toe).
2. 2 Put the splint on your finger. To do this, straighten the affected finger while supporting it with the other hand. Slowly put the splint on the affected finger until it is fully seated.
   • Check that the stack splint fits perfectly and that the toe is really straight. If the finger is slightly bent forward or backward, this can lead to the development of ulcers on the joint. If the stacking bar has a built-in adjustable strap, you can use that to secure it in place without using tape.

3. 3 Use tape if necessary. Use scissors to cut ten inches (25 cm) of medical tape. Wrap it tightly around your finger and splint it beyond the first joint.

   • Some stacked tires have built-in adjustable straps so no tape is required.
4. 4 Check trigger pin circulation. Hold your fingernail on the trigger for just a couple of seconds. This will turn off the blood flow and turn it white. Then let go. If the nail turns pink within a second or two, then it has good circulation and your splint is on correctly.
   • If blood returns to the area for more than two seconds, the splint is too tight. Your finger needs adequate blood flow to heal. Remove and refit the tire, adjusting its tightness.

5. 5 Keep the splint for four to six weeks. Unfortunately, the middle finger on the trigger takes so long to heal. In mild cases, it may heal in as little as two to three weeks; however, this largely depends on the injury and the extent and severity of the inflammation of the affected trigger finger.

   • Because they only immobilize the top of the finger, the stop bars are somewhat less visible than other bars. This way, it might be easier to keep them on all the time without major inconvenience. This is probably the best option for proper healing, but check with your doctor.
   • Immobilization required. In order for your finger to heal, try not to use it as often as possible.
   • Replace/replace the tire (and tape) when they become dirty, the tape starts to peel or if it becomes too weak to work.
   • See your doctor in four to six weeks (or as previously recommended) if your finger has not healed. He or she will be able to give you the necessary management skills to take care of your injured trigger finger.

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Method 5 of 5: What are dynamic splints

1. one Talk to your doctor about dynamic splints. Dynamic splints are the most difficult of all finger splints because they are often spring loaded and always fit individually. This means that they are not universal and require prior evaluation by a doctor. To splint your trigger finger with this method, you will need to see a doctor.
   • Unlike other splints, dynamic splints use tension to actively engage the flexion and positioning of the injured finger. Basically, it’s physical therapy at hand.
   • Dynamic splints are only worn at rest or during periods of inactivity, usually just a few hours at a time. This allows you to correctly position the muscles, ligaments and tendons, which should be in a relaxed state.

2. 2 Install and apply the tire. Once your doctor recommends a dynamic splint and selects the appropriate type and size, he or she will fit it. Here’s what happens:

   • The doctor will advise you to straighten the affected finger while supporting it with your other hand. Some situations require the finger to be slightly bent depending on the position to be corrected.
   • The doctor will now put the dynamic splint on your index finger until it is fully up.
   • Your doctor will perform further evaluation to correct position, alignment and proper fit. He/she will also check the pulse to make sure the area has good circulation.
   • He/she will advise you to bend the affected finger. It must return to a straight position due to the spring attached to the dynamic tire.
3. 3 Schedule control activities. The doctor will give appropriate instructions on how long to use the dynamic splint. Once everything is complete, schedule a follow-up visit to assess the improvement in your injured trigger finger.
   • If you experience any complications such as poor circulation, unusual finger pain, numbness or tingling, or the splint does not seem to be working, see your doctor before your scheduled follow-up visit. Most likely, all you need is a quick tire change.

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• Question What do I do with my thumb on the trigger? See a hand specialist to assess the need for surgery or intralesional steroid injections.

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• How to put a splint on the trigger? Answer
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