What is the treatment for turf burn?

Treatment of Turf Burns

The recommended treatment for turf burns includes immediate cleaning with cool running water (15-25°C), applying antibiotic ointment, and covering with a sterile, non-adherent dressing to promote healing and prevent infection. 1

Initial Management

1. Clean the wound immediately:

   • Rinse the turf burn with cool running water (15-25°C) until pain subsides 1
   • Gently remove any debris or artificial turf particles from the wound
   • Avoid using ice directly on the burn as this can worsen tissue damage 1

2. Wound assessment:

   • Determine the depth and extent of the turf burn
   • Most turf burns are superficial (first-degree) or partial-thickness (second-degree) burns
   • Check for signs of deeper injury or extensive involvement

Wound Care

1. Cleaning and debridement:

   • Gently clean the wound with mild soap and water
   • Debride any loose, dead tissue if necessary
   • Leave intact blisters undisturbed as they provide a natural barrier against infection 1

2. Topical treatment:

   • Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to prevent infection 1
   • For larger or more severe turf burns, consider 1% silver sulfadiazine cream (approximately 1/16 inch thickness) 1
   • Avoid products containing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as these can delay healing

3. Dressing application:

   • Cover the wound with a sterile, non-adherent dressing 1
   • Secure dressing loosely to prevent additional trauma
   • Change dressings daily or when soiled

Infection Prevention

Turf burns are particularly susceptible to infection, especially with Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) due to contact with artificial playing surfaces 2, 3. Risk factors include:

• Skin breaks from turf burns 2
• Contact sports participation 2
• Sharing equipment or towels 2

To prevent infection:

• Monitor for signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or purulent drainage)
• Continue antibiotic ointment until healing is complete
• Avoid sharing towels, clothing, or equipment 2
• Maintain good hygiene practices 2

Pain Management

• Use acetaminophen or NSAIDs for pain control as needed 1
• For more severe pain, consider short-acting opioids 1
• Non-pharmacological techniques like cold compresses may help reduce pain

Follow-up Care

• Monitor the wound daily for signs of healing or complications
• Seek medical attention if:
  • Signs of infection develop (increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, pus)
  • The wound doesn't show improvement within 3-5 days
  • The burn covers a large area or involves the face, hands, feet, or genitalia 1

Special Considerations

• Athletes should be screened for skin infections before returning to contact sports 2
• If infection develops, complete at least 72 hours of appropriate antibiotic therapy before returning to competition 2
• No active, moist, or draining lesions should be present when returning to sports 2

Prevention

• Wear appropriate protective clothing during sports activities on artificial turf
• Consider the use of long sleeves and pants during practice on artificial surfaces
• Promptly clean and treat any skin abrasions that occur during sports activities