WA
82 posts
Hi Folks
Has anyone had any experience with waterproof dressings? I have had a small opp on my shoulder and the wound has to remain open for a few weeks at least (yuk). The nurses said that although the dressing is waterproof it is only really for showering etc. I need to find something that is completely waterproof. Another option would be a dry suit I suppose but I have no experience with them? Apart from looking a complete dick (I can live with that if it means I get to kite) I would probably die from heat stroke :-). Any ideas?
WA
528 posts
quite a big range at the chemist. All designed as water proof dressings - ask the shop staff for help.
I bought some small ones awhile back and they were good. I bought several and removed them immediately after each session, so I could check it and reapply antiseptic.
But I was warned that sea water does contain lots of living stuff that you really don't want in an open wound - Mega YUK !!!
my cut was on the back of my forearm and was easy for me to keep an eye on, sounds a little risky for you, depending where your shoulder wound is.
They also had water proof tape so you could double up with two different types of protection. I'm thinking you'll need someone to apply it for you.
WA
34 posts
When I get reef cuts on surf trips I always use duck tape which usually works for a while. Just make sure you don't stick it onto the actual wound.
Apparently according to engineers duck tape and WD40 solves everything!
WA
1501 posts
Cutifilm plus is the duck's nuts.
VIC
475 posts
ive been doing gauze then strapping tape then black electrical tape- keeps it dry and then cut it off after showering.
WA
1363 posts
Opsite dressings, the stuff is amazing, comes in all size. Its can be a tad tricky putting it on but then its like a second skin. They are also breathable so you don't have to change too often which inhibits healing.
Just prior to entering the water you can give them a coat of Opsite spray (second skin) to extra seal them.
QLD
105 posts
Just sit it out until it heals, last thing you want is infection in there, especially if there is a chance it can communicate with the bone or joint.
Sometimes patience really is the best medicine.
WA
356 posts
^^^^^ agree with the above, don't mess with bone or a joint (almost lost movement in my ankle like that)
..... That being said, I had an injury that the doctor said to rest and don't get it wet. Can't resist getting in the water so used some sort of water proof dressing but I didn't trust it so some cling film, duct tape and wetsuit to keep it all in place put my mind at rest and kept it dry.
WA
154 posts
I agree with the others about letting one like that heel but I use the Elastoplast spray on "bandaid" on my cuts. Just do a few layers to get it nice and thick. Works for me
WA
1397 posts
Yup agree with Matt,
Spray on bandaid is unreal if you are in the ocean all the time. Get a few layers on then top up every time you go out and no dramas. Works on quite big areas of skin loss like burns, big skids etc.
But for a deep surgical cut I would still be worried. Take the quacks advice.
NSW
96 posts
Don't be silly on this one. Shoulders are one of the most easily infected joints as the joint itself is so superficial to the skin.
Septic arthritis is life threatening and often requires multiple surgeries and six months of antibiotics to clear and the shoulder will never be the same again (you would be lucky to be able to kite on it ever again)
If its a minor op then it will heal quickly if you take care of yourself and health - be patient with this one and keep it clean a dry until fully healed
4862 posts
I agree with others. Don't fark with it.
Also. There's more to kiting than just the water.
Explore buggying landboarding and longboard skating. All fun in their own right.
