- Reference Number: HEY880/2025
- Departments: Emergency Department
- Last Updated: 25 November 2025
Introduction
This leaflet gives you information about caring for a pre-tibial laceration (a cut on the shin). It is not a substitute for medical advice – please speak to your healthcare professional if you have any questions.
About Your Injury
Pre-tibial lacerations are usually caused by knocking or an injury on the shin. Because the skin here is thin, it can tear easily and heal slowly. Healing may take 4 weeks to 4 months. Stitches are not usually used, as the skin is delicate. Instead, sometimes steri-strips (paper stitches) and a padded dressing are applied to protect the wound and support healing.
How to Care for Your Leg
- Rest and elevate your leg — keep your foot higher than your hip whenever possible.
- Exercise your ankle and foot by moving your foot up/down and in/out to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
- Avoid long periods of standing
- Keep your bandage dry and in place until your next dressing change.
Your dressing should be changed in 5 days — this can be done at your GP Practice or Dressing Clinic.
Pain Relief
Take simple painkillers (such as paracetamol) as advised. If you are allergic to, or cannot take certain medications, ask your GP or pharmacist for advice.
Seek further medical advice if:
- The wound bleeds heavily and soaks through the dressing.
- Your toes become very swollen, pale, cold, or painful.
- You have increasing pain, redness, discharge, or odour from the wound.
- You are worried or concerned about your leg.
