How To Treat Road Rash

Road rash is a type of skin abrasion and friction burn that develops after the skin is scraped against a rough surface. Patients who participate in sports performed on tarred surfaces, including skateboarding and bicycling, are most likely to experience road rash. This injury causes the outer layers of skin to be removed, and it can be very painful. Patients with road rash may notice their skin looks raw, and bleeding or oozing may occur. Most cases of road rash are relatively minor, and they heal on their own within two weeks. Home treatment is typically all that is needed for this injury. However, patients with extensive road rash that has caused several layers of skin to be removed might need skin grafting surgery or other treatment.