How to Avoid Getting Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot forms, most commonly in the legs, and then travels to the heart, brain or lungs. While a very dangerous condition, there are several practical and simple ways to avoid a serious problem.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Practice foot and leg exercises frequently, particularly if you are sitting for long periods of time. Deep vein thrombosis is a common problem among people who work desk jobs, travel long distances frequently or have limited mobility. By simply flexing and extending the feet, rolling the ankles and getting the blood flow in the legs moving helps you to avoid a problem.

2. Take multiple gentle walks several times a day. You do not need to take a 30 minute walk each time, as simply standing and moving around for two or three minutes every few hours is a great way to avoid a serious problem.

3. Follow the doctors orders after a leg injury, including ankle sprains, as damage to the tissues in the legs greatly increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Rest, elevation, heat and ice as prescribed by your doctor should be followed to the letter.

4. Reduce your weight if you are more than 10 or 20 lbs. overweight. The added weight and pressure on your legs reduces blood circulation in the extremities and increases your risk.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are at a greater risk for deep vein thrombosis, regularly elevating your feet above your heart can also help.
• Avoid walking near busy roads or other areas where traffic fumes are present. Studies have shown that pollution in the air increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

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[john2341]

on 9/20/2008 The problem is that pressure on the underside of thighs from the seat pan and the edge of the seat pan presses against the thighs, which reduces back flow of blood, only redistributing pressure can help.