At the moment I'm working with a splinter in my index finger, just above the nail, which has gone in vertically. Not a big splinter but one of those where the end is almost invisible and very sore..
I'm using Magnesium Sulphate, a 'drawing ointment' used mainly on boils, carbuncles and the like, but also good for splinters if one is prepared to wait for results. I was with my GP yesterday and I took the opportunity to show him this splinter and he said MS well worth trying. However, if it doesn't work then the body 'normally' manages to eject the thing but it does mean keeping an eye for infection !
I shall persevere......
Oh, the Doc did say DON'T be tempted to use needles or similar unless (a) it's a very small splinter, and (B) make sure the needle is cleaned first with alcohol, or similar - caused more problems in many cases.........................
ps MS is very cheap and available at chemists, but you need to ask for it !!
NB !!
ALL BEEN SAID BEFORE AND PROBABLY A LITTLE BORING, BUT...
It ( should ) go without saying that ANY wound, no matter how small, MUST be covered with a waterproof plaster if intending to wash hands in lake / river water after landing a fish or some such, because of WIELS DISEASE !!!
Also, using antiseptic HAND WASH at the same time is good practice..........................