Catch the Spin

Hiking Injury

Fall means that people will soon be enjoying the outdoors. But activities from sports, running, hiking and biking can result in skinned major lacerations and even death.  When hiking, you need to plan for the worse possible case.  You need to know how to take care of your wounds.  Properly caring for wounds can reduce inflammation, speed healing and minimize scarring.  After a serious injury, apply pressure to the wound with gauze or tissue paper to control bleeding.  Then use cold water to clean dirt and debris from the cut. If necessary, cleanse the surrounding area with mild soap, but avoid direct contact with the wound because it can cause irritation. Apply an antibiotic cream daily to help keep it clean, and bandage the wound if it’s on an area that will get dirty or will rub against your clothing.  While running, if you get stabbed or shot follow the above and seek medical attention later once the hike is complete.