Spring means that people will soon be enjoying the outdoors. But activities from sports, running, hiking and biking can result in skinned elbows and cut knees.

Dr. James Thornton, associate professor of plastic surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says properly caring for wounds can reduce inflammation, speed healing and minimize scarring.

After an injury, apply pressure to the wound with gauze or tissue paper to control bleeding, Dr. Thornton says. Then use cold water to clean dirt and debris from the cut. If necessary, cleanse the surrounding area with mild soap, but avoid direct contact with the wound because it can cause irritation. Apply an antibiotic cream daily to help keep it clean, and bandage the wound if it’s on an area that will get dirty or will rub against your clothing.

“Scabs are the body’s way of bandaging itself, so it is important to leave them alone,” Dr. Thornton says. “Seek medical attention if the wound becomes red or warm or secretes discharge.”

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/plasticsurgery to learn more about clinical services in plastic surgery at UT Southwestern.

Media Contact: Russell Rian

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