What is DVT? How can i reduce the risks?











		What is DVT? How can I reduce the risks? What is a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and why are we more at risk when we sit? Blood is pumped around your body through the arteries and it returns to the heart in the veins. Blood returning to the heart from the legs has to travel against gravity. This process is normally assisted by the muscles of the legs acting as a pump and occurs automatically when you walk. When seated for long periods with little opportunity to exercise, this process is not as efficient. As a result, the flow of blood in the lower leg can slow down and start to collect. If this happens, the blood can become sticky and begin to thicken or coagulate. This is how a deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) forms. When you are in this situation, it is important to exercise your calf muscles on a regular basis so that your blood is encouraged to move throughout your legs.


		How does the calf muscle help with the blood flow in your legs? When you walk, your calf muscle applies pressure to the walls of the veins in the lower leg. This pressure application creates a ‘pumping like’ action on the blood inside the vein as the vein’s valves are opened and closed. This process effectively milks the blood along the course of the veins back towards the heart. Regular contraction of the calf muscle plays an extremely important role in helping to maintain the flow of blood through the veins in the lower leg.
		What can I do to reduce the risks of DVT when seated for prolonged periods? Regular walking is the best thing to do, however if this is not possible: • Exercise your legs with the MediFlexor™ (to simulate walking) • Breathe deeply at regular intervals to increase oxygen uptake • Keep well hydrated by drinking water • Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol, tea or coffee. • Consider wearing compression stockings • Do not cross your legs • Avoid your calves making prolonged contact with your seat What are the risk factors? Venous Thrombosis can affect anyone. However, there are some people more at risk than others. Some of the potential risk factors include: • Being seated for prolonged periods without exercise • Recent surgery • Circulatory disorders • Varicose veins • Heart disease • Previous history of blood clots • Recent serious leg injuries • Taking the contraceptive pill If you have particular concerns about your individual situation, consult your physician to discuss the potential risks and specific preventative measures which may be appropriate.