At one time or another cyclists scrape their skin. This is usually a minor injury unless it involves a large area or if foreign material becomes embedded in it. Risk of road rash increases when riding over rough terrain, during the rain or when skin is not properly covered. So be careful when picking your riding partners, your road course and remember to wear two jerseys.

For treatment wash the area with plain soap and water as soon as possible. Scrub with a wash cloth or soft brush to remove particles. For continuing care, apply an antibiotic creme two times a day. Cleanse lightly at least once a day. If crusting or oozing occurs, soak in some warm soapy water. Cover area lightly with a bandage during the day but leave area open to air at night if possible. The best antibiotic creme is silvadene (silver sulfadiazine cream). Unfortunately, it is a prescription drug. Don't use iodine, methiolate, mercurochrome or alcohol. They will irritate the skin and increase your pain. You will need to see the doctor if:

1) you cannot clean all the debris (otherwise you may end up with a "tattoo"),

2) signs of infection appear (increased oozing, tenderness, redness, swelling and pain at the injury site; fever or headache), or

3) unexplained symptoms develop.

If you have questions call: Dr. Herman Falsetti at 949 727 1900.