Thumb spica (strapping)

Care of the splint

The thumb spica must be worn for up to 1 week, or as advised. During this time, the hand, in particular the tape must be kept dry and clean. If the tape gets wet it may become too tight as it dries out. After 5 to 7 days the tape will lose its adhesive properties and will be easy to remove when soaked in warm water.

Care of your thumb

As with any new injury you can expect some pain, swelling and bruising.

• If your thumb becomes swollen, discoloured, cold, numb or develops a feeling of 'pins and needles', please remove the strapping immediately and refer to the contact information at the end of this page.
• To help healing and to reduce swelling, the hand should be kept elevated. You may find a high arm sling helps you with this. Alternatively, you can rest your hand on a raised pillow. The hand must be raised as advised.
•  The thumb will appear stiff and may still be swollen. This will improve over the following 3 to 4 weeks.
• Occasionally a fracture may be missed on your X-ray, however all X-rays are reviewed by a radiologist and we will inform you if you need any additional treatment. Your GP has access to any X-ray reports and can advise you further.

Exercises

• Regularly touch your thumb to each finger in turn
• Continue with usual daily activities and remember it is important to exercise the joints elsewhere in the affected arm, for example shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand

Pain relief

It is important that you take regular pain relief medication to relieve any discomfort. Generally, patients find paracetamol works well and 48 hours after the injury you can also introduce ibuprofen. Please check with a pharmacist if you take any other medication.

Contact

Trauma Service enquiries

Tel: 0300 422 5269

Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 2:00pm

Email: ghn-tr.glostrauma@nhs.net