For road cyclists, road rash is an unfortunate reality that you are likely to encounter at least a few times during your riding. Icy lanes, dangerous drivers, greasy roundabouts and tyre blow-outs are just a few of the potential hazards that could leave you with the painful red abrasion to your hips, elbows and knees.
I've had my fair share this season, as I mentioned in my 'Mid-Season Update' (Link), and I've learnt a few things that significantly help the healing process...
1) Get it clean straight away - Tarmac is not a hygienic or sterile surface, and getting bits of grit in your road rash and cuts will prolong the healing process and potentially lead to infection. It hurts like hell, but wash your cut out thoroughly in the shower after the accident, and use antiseptic wipes to really get it clean before you do anything else.
I've had my fair share this season, as I mentioned in my 'Mid-Season Update' (Link), and I've learnt a few things that significantly help the healing process...
1) Get it clean straight away - Tarmac is not a hygienic or sterile surface, and getting bits of grit in your road rash and cuts will prolong the healing process and potentially lead to infection. It hurts like hell, but wash your cut out thoroughly in the shower after the accident, and use antiseptic wipes to really get it clean before you do anything else.
It is a natural remedy that is infused with antimicrobial and antifungal Ozone, which helps to avoid infection. It is also a naturally oily consistency, which tends to stay put and avoid abrasion on the wound; this seems far better than more water based antiseptic creams, which tend to be absorbed into dressings or clothing. Keep the wound slightly moist, clean and free of abrasion, and it significantly aids skin healing and reduces scaring.
3) Use fresh dressings - If dressings look like they are getting soiled either by bodily fluid or from dirt on the outside, take them off and add a fresh one, cleaning up the wound and re-applying the disinfecting balm as you do so. This will help to avoid infection and aid the healing process.
Road rash is an unpleasant and painful side-effect of bike riding, but with careful treatment it doesn't have to last as long, or be as painful. I hope these tips help you heal up quick.