What is an abrasion?

An abrasion is defined specifically as a scrape of the skin that occurs when the skin is rubbed against a rough surface, resulting in the top layers of skin being worn away. This type of injury typically does not penetrate deeper than the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and often appears as a superficial wound. Abrasions can occur in various settings, such as during sports activities or accidents, and they may cause bleeding and pain, although they are generally less severe than other types of skin injuries.

Understanding the nature of abrasions is important in the context of injury prevention and treatment in athletic training. Proper care of abrasions is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing, which involves cleaning the wound and, if necessary, covering it with a sterile dressing. Recognizing the characteristics of this type of injury helps those in athletic training to respond appropriately and provide the correct first aid when these injuries occur.