Menu
Log in
Forgot password



 

Log in

ODSP Clients? Click Here

Scrapes and Cuts



Cuts and Scrapes

What & How?

Cuts and scrapes occur when there is a tear in the skin. 

This can be from a fall, banging against an object or being pierced by something sharp.


Did You Know? 

Ancient remedies for wounds and cuts include turmeric, honey, iron and alcohol.

The root of the turmeric plant is frequently used in India as a cooking spice and as a medical ointment. Turmeric paste was applied on the wound to reduce pain and inflammation.

Honey is also known to be applied as an antibiotic and was widely used in Egypt. Ancient Egyptians even used animal grease as protective barrier for wounds.


When Would a Cut

 Require Stitches? 

A cut that is over 1/4 inch deep into your skin, exposes internal tissues or has an object embedded in it might need surgical stitches.

Podiatrist are trained to treat and stitch wounds on the feet.


    Cuts and scrapes are among the most common foot injuries. Feet are especially susceptible to cuts in the summer months. Stepping on a sharp shell at the beach, tumbling on a piece of glass in the grass, scraping your feet against a rock during a hike or dropping an object on your open toed shoes are all things that can cut and scrap your summer feet.

    Though cuts are common, they must be given proper attention to as they can range from minor to deep wounds.



    What to Do?

    Cuts may be treated at home or by a medical professional depending on the severity of the cut. 

    Assessment
    Check the wound to see if it is minor and can be treated at home. You should seek medical attention right away if:
    • The cut is spurting blood
    • The wound keeps opening
    • The cut is more than 1/4 inch deep
    • The cut goes through muscles or tendons
    • The wound was a result of a bite
    • The cut is accompanied by severe pain
    • Fat, muscle or bone is visible through the cut, it will likely need stitches
      Treatment
      Minor cuts can be treated at home. Learn more about basic wound care at home. Deep cuts would require medical attention. In which case,
      • Rinse your cut with water to wash away any debris. It is best to wipe the debris away from the cut with a sterile gauze to prevent it from getting into the wound.
      • Apply and hold pressure on the cut with a clean cloth or bandage. Raise your cut above the level of your heart. This is especially important for cuts on the feet to slow blood flow towards the wound. Hold the pressure until seen by the podiatrist.
      • Do not remove any object that does not wash away easily. It can cause even more damage. Avoid using household products such as rubbing alcohol or iodine as it can slow healing.
      • Make your way to a podiatrist. Avoid driving by yourself, especially with a foot injury. If you are alone and bleeding severely, call an ambulance.
      When to See a Podiatrist?
      Visit a Podiatrist when there is a wound deep on your foot. If the cut or scrape does not stop bleeding or if there are any signs of infection, self-care is not advised. Call make a visit to your closest podiatrist right away.



                                                         

          Copyright © 2020 by Ontario Podiatric Medical Association. 

          All Rights Reserved OPMA Website Disclaimer



          Contact Us

          OPMA | Ontario Podiatric Medical Association

          P.O. Box 87538 Thornhill Square RPO

          300 John Street Markham, ON L3T7R3

          Tel: 905-475-3098 

          Email: contact@opma.ca 


          Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software