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How to Splint a Fractured Finger or Toe in the Wilderness

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(3 Ratings)

Splinting a fracture is important for reducing pain and speeding healing.

From Quick Guide: Wilderness Skills
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Assess for fracture (see "How to Assess for Fracture").

  2. Step 2

    Immobilize the injury: Any movement is not only very painful but also can worsen the injury.

  3. Step 3

    Make sure the fractured digit and a digit adjacent to it are straight.

  4. Step 4

    Tape the fractured digit to the adjacent digit by gently spiraling athletic tape around both fingers.

  5. Step 5

    Check circulation and sensation in both digits to make sure the tape isn't too tight.

  6. Step 6

    Continue with further treatment for the fracture (see eHows on treating fractures).

Tips & Warnings
  • Contact the Wilderness Medicine Institute or the National Outdoor Leadership School for information on wilderness medicine courses and books.
  • Don't tape the digits too tightly. This could impede circulation.
  • This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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