Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, describes the occurrence of a blood clot in one of your veins. The dangers associated with blood clots and DVT is pulmonary embolism, a condition in which the blood clot dislodges from the vein and travels to your lungs, cutting off blood flow to your body. A pulmonary embolism can cause significant damage to your internal organs and can even be fatal, according to the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute, or NHBLI. Anticoagulation is a therapy for DVT in which drugs are administered intravenously or orally to prevent your blood from clotting. Exercising patterns after anticoagulation treatment vary, depending on your condition.
Step 1
Put on a compression garment before you exercise to reduce the pain and swelling associated with deep vein thrombosis. Most people with DVT get clots in the legs, requiring the use of a compression sock or stocking during exercise.
Step 2
Ask a friend or family member to accompany you as you exercise following anticoagulation therapy. Investigators Against ThromboEmbolism, or INATE, an organization formed by international DVT experts, explains that the risk of a pulmonary embolism still exists even after anticoagulation drugs have been administered, and while you're encouraged to remain mobile, supervision is required in the first few days.
Step 3
Walk as your form of exercise during anticoagulation therapy and in the first several days after your treatment has been completed. INATE explains that exercise can be a prevention tool for further clots; your doctor will let you know how much time each day you should be walking. Some patients must stay mobile as long as four hours daily to reduce their risks of embolisms.
Step 4
Speak to your doctor if your leg pain has receded and you wish to exercise a little more strenuously. Adequate research for vigorous exercise post-anticoagulation is lacking, though the October 2004 issue of "Thrombosis Journal" suggests that the sharp movements associated with some contact sports, such as soccer, may cause vein damage that can lead to the development of a blood clot. Your doctor will assess your condition to determine what type of exercise is safe for you to perform.
Things You'll Need
- Compression garments
