How to Remove a Ring with a String

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If your ring is stuck on your finger, don’t panic! There are several techniques you can try to remove it. The string wrap (dental floss) technique can work in simple cases, but this technique does need a warning - tight wraps may cause finger damage and may make the swelling worse, the stuck ring can become even more stuck if this is unsuccessful. To use the string wrap technique, wrap a thin piece of thread or dental floss tightly around your finger, starting at your middle knuckle and working your way to the edge of the ring. Slip the end of the thread under the ring, pull it taut, and start unwinding it in the same direction to slowly pry off the ring. If that doesn’t work, try icing your finger to reduce swelling or applying a lubricant like cooking oil.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Wrapping the Finger with Thread or Floss

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    Thin thread or dental floss will slide more easily underneath a stuck ring. The waxy surface of dental floss can make it even more useful in this situation. If you choose to use thread, make sure it’s thin but strong. [1]
    • If you only have access to thicker string, like a shoelace, go ahead and try it!
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    Use your free hand to place the end of the thread or floss at the knuckle on the fingertip side of your finger. Wind the string around your knuckle once to get the wrapping process started.
    • If you’re working by yourself, you may need to briefly hold the string in place by squeezing the fingers on the affected hand tightly together.
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    The idea is to compress your skin close to the ring, so wind the thread tightly around your finger. Keep wrapping it around as you slowly move toward the ring. Make sure each wrap is directly next to the previous wrap. Stop wrapping once you reach the edge of the ring.
    • You shouldn’t be able to see any flesh under or between the thread from your knuckle to the ring.
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    Now that your finger skin is compressed, you should be able to wedge the end of the thread under the ring and pass it through to the other side. Pull the thread up and toward your middle knuckle.
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    Pull the thread taut toward your knuckle and start unwinding the string. Each time you unwind 1 of the layers, the ring will move a little farther up the compressed skin of your finger. Keep unwinding the thread until you reach the starting point at your knuckle. [2]
    • It can help to gently nudge the ring with your free hand to help it along as you unwind the thread.
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    After unwinding the thread, you should be able to pull the ring completely off your finger. If the ring is still stuck, you may want to try another removal technique or seek emergency assistance. [3]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Using Other Removal Techniques

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    Lift up your hand so the blood drains out of the affected area. Then, hold an ice pack to the finger for 5-10 minutes to help reduce the swelling around the ring. After 10 minutes, relax your hand and try to pull off the ring with your free hand.
    • Don’t try to force it! This could cause additional swelling. If the ring won’t come off at this point, try another technique.
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    You can get a ring cutter from a jewelry store, fire department, or emergency room. It’s best to let a professional cut the ring off your finger so that you don’t injure yourself, and newer ring cutters are now available that can cut all ring metals, including Titanium and Tungsten Carbide rings (the Ring Rescue Dolphin Ring Cutter). Keep in mind that the ring will be damaged if you cut through it. [4]
    • Ask a jeweler if the metal can be welded to repair the band once you get it off.
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    Cover the skin around and underneath the ring with warm, soapy water or olive oil. Once the area is saturated, use your free hand to twist the ring clockwise and counterclockwise to loosen it up. Then, keep twisting as you gently try to pry the ring off. [5]
    • You can use any oil you have on hand for this. For example, baby oil, vegetable oil, and jojoba oil are all good lubricants.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you remove a tight ring from a swollen finger?
    Joseph R. Villarreal, G.G. (GIA)
    Jeweler
    Joseph Villarreal is a Gemologist and President of Villarreal Diamonds and Fine Jewelry based in Austin, Texas. With over 36 years of industry experience, Joseph and his team specialize in custom jewelry design, diamond sales, and consignment jewelry for private clientele. Joseph is a Graduate Gemologist from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) with additional certifications in Diamond Grading and Gem Identification. Villarreal is also a member of Jewelers of America and is a Jewelers of America Certified Senior Management Professional.
    Joseph R. Villarreal, G.G. (GIA)
    Jeweler
    Expert Answer
    Believe it or not, one of the best ways is to hold your hand up over your head so the blood can flow down—that helps release the ring. Putting a cold compress on the finger can also help bring the swelling down and make the ring easier to pull off.
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      Things You’ll Need

      Wrapping the Finger with Thread or Floss

      • Thin thread or waxy dental floss

      Using Other Removal Techniques

      • Ice
      • Soapy water or cooking oil
      • Ring cutter

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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about jewelry, check out our in-depth interview with Joseph R. Villarreal, G.G. (GIA) .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/emergencies-and-first-aid-removing-a-stuck-ring
      2. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/emergencies-and-first-aid-removing-a-stuck-ring
      3. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/emergencies-and-first-aid-removing-a-stuck-ring
      4. ↑ https://handcare.assh.org/Conditions-and-Injuries/Hand-Safety/Removing-a-Ring
      5. ↑ https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tp9593&lang=en-ca

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