When you get a cut on your leg, it’s important to clean the wound and put a bandage on it. You should also see a doctor if the cut is more than a quarter inch deep, if it won’t stop bleeding, or if you think you might need stitches. If you have a leg wound that’s not healing, there are a few things Atur Kasha DO can do to help you.
There are different types of leg wounds:
- Abrasion: When your skin rubs or scrapes against something, the condition is called abrasion. Abrasions usually happen when you fall. They can also occur if you’re dragged along a rough surface.
- Laceration: When your skin is cut with something sharp, the wound is called a laceration. Lacerations can be deep or shallow. A deep laceration may require stitches.
- Puncture: A puncture wound happens when something sharp and pointy, like a nail or a piece of glass, goes through your skin. Because puncture wounds don’t usually bleed, they can be easy to miss. But if you have a puncture wound more than a quarter inch deep, it’s important to see a doctor.
- Avulsion: An avulsion is a wound when your skin is completely ripped off. This can happen in a car accident or during a sports injury.
Treatment of leg wounds
There are various ways to treat leg wounds; here is a comprehensive list:
Clean the wound: It is important to keep the wound clean to prevent infection. Use warm water and soap to clean the wound. Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine. These can delay healing. You can also use an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection.
Apply pressure: If the wound is bleeding, it’s important to apply pressure to the area. This can help stop the bleeding. Use a clean cloth or bandage to apply pressure. The right way to do this is to put the cloth over the wound and then tie it in place. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, you should go to the hospital.
Protect the wound: Once you’ve cleaned and treated the wound, you’ll need to protect it from further injury. You can do this by using a bandage or wrap. Be sure to change the bandage regularly.
Elevate the wound: If you have a leg wound, it’s important to keep it elevated. This can help reduce swelling and pain. Try to keep the wound above the level of your heart. You can use pillows or towels to prop up your leg.
Apply heat: Applying heat to the area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Do not put heat directly on the wound. You can use a heating pad, warm compress, or warm water bottle.
Take over-the-counter pain medication: If you’re in pain, you can take an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle.
Rest: It’s important to rest while your wound heals. If you have a leg wound, it’s best to avoid standing or walking for long periods. Avoid activities that can put too much stress on your wound.
Contact your doctor at Desert West Vein & Surgery Center if you have a leg wound.