Treating Skin Abrasions

Skin abrasions are probably one of the most common injuries in soccer. They are caused by sliding on the surface which you are playing, as you know the surfaces you may play on vary greatly from field to field and from time to time. Skin abrasions may be extremely painful and if not treated properly may become infected and harm you further. Cleaning and covering these injuries are imperative because there may be harmful bacteria and other substances in the ground that may increase the chances of infection, these may be from fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals used to maintain the fields. Please consult your family physician if you are having problems cleaning these injuries.

Treatment:
- Wear latex gloves if you are cleaning someone other then yourself
- Clean the abrasion with soap and water
- Wash area with hydrogen peroxide and a gauze pad
- Pick out any remaining foreign debris with sterile tweezers
- Clean again with hydrogen peroxide
- Dry with a gauze pad
- Cover area with antibacterial ointment
- Cover area with a non-adhesive pad
- Cover Pad with elastic tape to secure it while playing

Over the next couple days watch the wound for signs of infection. Keep the area clean with soap and water. Twice daily cover the wounded area with an anti-bacterial ointment. If treated properly the wound should be eliminated in about 1 week. If your abrasion is not healing in a timely fashion consult your family physician.