Splint Procedures

• 1). Get an X-ray of your hand to determine the extent of your injury. If your injury is severe, surgery may be necessary to correct the damage.
  
  
• 2). Get fitted with a splint, such as a thumb spica splint. Your thumb needs to be immobilized, which keeps your range of motion limited in order to promote healing.
  
  
• 3). Wear the splint on your thumb as recommended by your physician. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a thumb splint can be worn for up to six weeks.
  
  
• 4). Wrap your thumb and wrist in a compression bandage to help provide additional support for your thumb when wearing a splint. Beginning at the top of your thumb, wrap your thumb in a counterclockwise motion with the bandage.
  
  
• 5). Begin to wrap the bandage around your wrist and up your forearm once you get to the base (bottom) of your thumb. You can then wear your splint over the bandage.