An abrasion (scrape) is a shallow scrape on the skin surface and most commonly found on the hands, elbows, or knees. The wound is shallow and doesn't go far beneath the surface.Because an abrasion exposes millions of nerve endings, it can be very painful.n abrasion (scrape) is a shallow scrape on the skin surface and most commonly found on the hands, elbows, or knees. The wound is shallow and doesn't go far beneath the surface.