Treatment for ABRASIONS AND CHAFING
Abrasions, such as scuff bums or mat bums, are caused by rubbing or scraping off the outer layers of the skin. Some bruising is often present, but the wound does not penetrate the skin; if it did it would be a laceration. Abrasions often occur over the elbows and knees, as well as on the shins, over the hip bones and on the backs of the hands.
Chafing develops when the uppermost layer of the skin is rubbed repeatedly. This injury is analogous to a mild abrasion, and often occurs in the groin or nipples of runners and other athletes, under the arms, or in any areas subject to friction.
Treatment for ABRASIONS AND CHAFING
Thorough cleansing of the wound is the most important step in treatment. Bland white soap and water is quite adequate but antibacterial soaps can be used. If dirt and debris are embedded in the wound, a soft brush should be used to scrub this foreign matter out. If cleansing is adequate, further treatment by topical antiseptics is not needed. Sterile dressings may be used to protect the wound and keep it clean. Antibiotic ointments, creams, or sterile petrolatum, which prevent drying of the wound and sticking of the dressing, can be used, but greasy ointments should be avoided if the wound is oozing.
Prevention - ABRASIONS AND CHAFING
Pads over the elbows, knees and hips shield these bony surfaces. Areas of friction, such as the groin and nipples, can be protected by the liberal application of thick ointments, such as petrolatum (petroleum jelly) or lanolin. Nylon briefs are often less abrasive than athletic supporters, and running shorts with built-in mesh supporters can be helpful. Wet bathing suits, especially those that are salty and sandy, should not be worn for long periods since chafing is likely to result.
Chafing develops when the uppermost layer of the skin is rubbed repeatedly. This injury is analogous to a mild abrasion, and often occurs in the groin or nipples of runners and other athletes, under the arms, or in any areas subject to friction.
Treatment for ABRASIONS AND CHAFING
Thorough cleansing of the wound is the most important step in treatment. Bland white soap and water is quite adequate but antibacterial soaps can be used. If dirt and debris are embedded in the wound, a soft brush should be used to scrub this foreign matter out. If cleansing is adequate, further treatment by topical antiseptics is not needed. Sterile dressings may be used to protect the wound and keep it clean. Antibiotic ointments, creams, or sterile petrolatum, which prevent drying of the wound and sticking of the dressing, can be used, but greasy ointments should be avoided if the wound is oozing.
Prevention - ABRASIONS AND CHAFING
Pads over the elbows, knees and hips shield these bony surfaces. Areas of friction, such as the groin and nipples, can be protected by the liberal application of thick ointments, such as petrolatum (petroleum jelly) or lanolin. Nylon briefs are often less abrasive than athletic supporters, and running shorts with built-in mesh supporters can be helpful. Wet bathing suits, especially those that are salty and sandy, should not be worn for long periods since chafing is likely to result.
Posts
