T.S.
We now use the soaking and soaking and soaking method. My son got a splinter on Monday and we're still soaking it out. I wouldn't attempt too much else these days...as in not poking around too much...with all the increased risks of infection out there.
We have soaked for several days with my daughter and then the splinter somehow has moved closer to the surface.
My son soaks before school (during breakfast) and sometime after school and/or in the evening. Had hoped to take it out last night but it's still just below the surface.
He got the splinter while picking up a stick in the yard!
Perhaps call your doctor to see what he/she recommends before you poke too much.
Good luck!