Knee abrasion for 17 days, scab is hard and painful when stretched, how should it be managed?
Disease description:
The patient is 25 years old. The knee was accidentally scraped 17 days ago. The wound has formed a hard scab, the surrounding skin feels tight, and there is pulling pain during movement. How should this be managed?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
It is common for a scraped knee to form a hard scab and experience pulling pain during the healing process, which lasts for 17 days.
Excessive exudate from the wound may dry and form a thick scab, causing discomfort when the knee joint moves and the scab pulls on the surrounding newly formed tissue. Alternatively, improper wound management during the early stages might have caused a stronger inflammatory response, affecting the normal healing process beneath the scab.
It is recommended not to forcibly peel off the scab to avoid secondary injury and infection. Instead, moisten sterile gauze with normal saline and gently apply it to the scab for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily, to soften the scab and alleviate pain. Additionally, minimize extensive movements of the knee joint to prevent excessive stretching of the wound.
Monitor the wound area for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If these occur, seek medical attention promptly, as oral antibiotics under a doctor's guidance may be necessary. If the area around the scab itches, avoid scratching; gently tapping the area may provide relief. Regarding diet, increase your intake of protein- and vitamin-rich foods, such as lean meats, fruits, and vegetables, to support wound healing.
