Deep Vein Thrombosis

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep Vein Thrombosis is a blood clot in a vein. It is more common in the calf muscle area, particularly following surgery and long-haul flights.
DVT is relatively common, especially in overweight people, those over the age of 50 or with poor circulation. Although common, the condition is potentially fatal as if the clot comes loose it can work it's way up to the heart, lungs or brain, potentially causing a heart attack, pulmonary embolism or stroke. Athletes who carry extra weight for their sport (for example an offensive lineman playing football or a sumo wrestler), and athletes who are recovering from surgery especially need to be aware of this condition.

What are the symptoms?
-Constant calf pain.
-Tenderness at a point deep in the muscle.
-Swelling.
-Increased temperature.
-If the ankle is dorsi flexed (toes pushed upwards to stretch the muscle by the therapist whilst the athlete remains relaxed) this may cause pain.
-Sometimes a red area may be visible

What can the athlete do about it?
-If a DVT is suspected then medical attention should be sought immediately. A scan will confirm the diagnosis.

How is thrombosis treated?
Treatment of DVT usually involves:
-Daily injections of an anti-coagulant known as Heparin for up to a week, followed by a second anti-coagulant medication called Warfarin, taken in a pill form, on a daily basis for up to 6 months.
-During this time regular blood tests should be taken to ensure that the patient is on the right dose.
-Too much Warfarin increases the risk of bleeding and too little increases the risk of the clot growing.
-Warfarin should not be used in patients who are pregnant as it can cause birth defects.