About this topic
After an injury or surgery, a problem that could happen is a blood clot or a deep vein thrombosis. This is also called DVT. This most often happens in your calf muscle. If it is not treated, the clot can travel through your blood to the lungs. This can be very serious. ‚
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What can be done to prevent this health problem?
One way that you can help stop a blood clot, is to keep your calf muscles moving. Sometimes, being in a brace or cast will keep you from being able to do these exercises. You also may not be able to do them if you have an injury near your ankle. Check with your doctor first to see if it is OK to do these foot pumping exercises. ‚
Try to do these exercises at least every hour that you are awake. If you like to watch TV, try moving your ankle with each commercial break. You can do these exercises while lying down or sitting. ‚
Ankle Pumps ‚
- Move each foot up and down like you are pressing down and lifting up on a gas pedal. Do this at least 10 times.
Ankle Circles ‚
- Slowly move each ankle in a circle. It might help to imagine drawing a large circle with your toes. Do 10 circles in one direction and 10 circles in the other direction.
Ankle Alphabet ‚
- Act like you are writing the alphabet with each foot. Do not move all your leg to do this, just move your ankle. Do all the alphabet, taking short rests if you get tired.
These exercises should not be painful. You may have a little pain if you have had surgery or an injury. If you get any very bad, sharp pains, stop the exercises right away and let your doctor know. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
Signs of a blood clot: ‚
- Calf or leg gets more red, swollen, warm, or painful
- Pain in the calf or leg may be worse when walking or moving the foot up and down
- Shortness of breath
Where can I learn more?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Thrombosis ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚