General
Splinters & Objects Under the Skin
Wood splinters, glass slivers, metal fragments, thorns and fishhooks can lodge under the skin. Small, shallow splinters often come out at home. Deep, painful or hard-to-reach objects, and anything that has been in long enough to get infected, are best removed in the clinic.
- Walk-in or book
What is splinters & objects under the skin?
Wood splinters, glass slivers, metal fragments, thorns and fishhooks can lodge under the skin. Small, shallow splinters often come out at home. Deep, painful or hard-to-reach objects, and anything that has been in long enough to get infected, are best removed in the clinic.
Common symptoms
- A visible splinter, or a dark spot under the skin
- Pain when you press on the spot
- Redness, swelling or pus around it
- A wound that isn't healing
- A fishhook stuck in the skin
How we treat it at AfterOurs
A provider examines the wound, and an X-ray may be needed to find glass or metal. The area is numbed and the object is removed through a small opening, then the wound is cleaned and dressed. We'll check whether you're due for a tetanus shot and treat any infection.
When to come in
Come in for a splinter that is deep, large, under a fingernail, or that you couldn't get all of, and for any wound that looks infected. If the object was dirty and your last tetanus shot was more than five years ago, you'll likely need a booster.
What to expect at your visit
- Step 1
Check in
Walk in, or book online to hold your place and skip the wait.
- Step 2
See a provider
A clinician examines you and runs any on-site tests you need.
- Step 3
Leave with a plan
Treatment, prescriptions sent to your pharmacy, and a visit summary.
Ready to feel better? We're open late.
Book online to hold your place, or just walk in.