Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Recognizing and Treating Blood Clots in the Lower Leg
Overview
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition where a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins of the leg. These clots can partially or completely block blood flow, leading to pain, swelling, and tissue damage.
If not treated promptly, part of the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE) — a life-threatening emergency.
While DVT is a vascular disorder, orthopedic specialists like Dr. Robert L. Burke often identify early warning signs in patients presenting with calf pain, swelling, or mobility issues.
Through careful evaluation and coordination with vascular specialists, Dr. Burke Orthopedics provides the essential early detection, care coordination, and post-treatment rehabilitation to ensure full recovery for patients throughout Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.
Understanding DVT
Veins carry blood from the body back to the heart. When blood flow in the deep veins slows or becomes obstructed, it can form a clot. The lower leg — especially the calf and thigh veins — is the most common site for DVT due to reduced circulation in these areas.
DVT can develop after surgery, injury, or prolonged immobility, but also occurs in otherwise healthy individuals who experience poor circulation or dehydration.
While orthopedic conditions such as fractures, muscle injuries, or immobilization increase the risk, early intervention and movement are key to preventing DVT from forming or worsening.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Prolonged immobility: Long flights, bed rest, or sitting for extended periods.
- Recent surgery or injury: Especially orthopedic procedures involving the legs or hips.
- Blood vessel damage: From trauma or inflammation.
- Clotting disorders: Genetic or acquired blood clotting abnormalities.
- Dehydration or poor circulation.
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Risk Factors:
- Age over 50.
- Family history of clotting disorders.
- Recent leg or joint surgery.
- Obesity or sedentary lifestyle.
- Smoking.
- Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
- Pregnancy or postpartum period.
- Cancer or certain chronic medical conditions.
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Awareness of these risk factors is essential for early detection and prevention.
Symptoms
DVT symptoms can range from subtle to severe, and sometimes no symptoms are present until complications arise.
Common signs include:
- Swelling in one or both legs (usually below the knee).
- Pain or cramping in the calf or thigh that may worsen when walking or standing.
- Warmth in the affected leg.
- Difficulty spreading fingers apart or coordinating small hand movements
- Skin discoloration (red or bluish tone).
- Tenderness when touching the calf or behind the knee.
- Visible surface veins becoming more prominent.
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If a clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, symptoms may include:
- Sudden shortness of breath.
- Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths.
- Rapid heart rate or lightheadedness.
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This indicates a pulmonary embolism, which requires immediate emergency care.
Diagnosis
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke begins by evaluating your symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to determine whether DVT or another condition (like calf strain or compartment syndrome) may be responsible for your leg pain.
Diagnostic process includes:
- Physical exam: Checking for swelling, warmth, tenderness, or skin discoloration.
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Imaging:
- Doppler ultrasound: The primary test for detecting clots and measuring blood flow.
- Venography: Uses contrast dye to visualize blocked veins (rarely needed).
- MRI or CT venography: Used in complex or recurrent cases.
- Blood test (D-dimer): Detects proteins associated with clot formation.
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Early diagnosis prevents serious complications and allows for immediate treatment.
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Treatment Options at Dr. Burke Orthopedics
While DVT is primarily treated with medication under vascular supervision, Dr. Burke Orthopedics plays an essential role in early identification, coordination, and recovery after immobilization or surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Anticoagulant therapy: Prescribed by a vascular or primary care physician to prevent clot growth and new clot formation.
- Compression therapy: Custom-fitted compression stockings improve circulation and reduce swelling.
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- Aids in restoring leg strength and mobility post-DVT.
- Focuses on safe movement and gradual reconditioning.
- Prevents stiffness and muscle loss from inactivity.
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- Lifestyle modifications:
- Staying hydrated, elevating the legs, and regular movement.
- Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing.
- Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
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In most cases, DVT can be effectively managed with these conservative measures under multidisciplinary care.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is reserved for severe or life-threatening cases when medication alone isn’t sufficient.
Surgical options may include:
- Thrombectomy: Surgical removal of the clot to restore blood flow.
- Catheter-directed thrombolysis: Minimally invasive procedure to dissolve the clot using medication delivered directly into the vein.
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- May be performed after chronic or recurrent DVT to repair vein damage or improve long-term circulation.
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These procedures are performed in collaboration with vascular specialists for optimal outcomes.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Initial recovery: 4–8 weeks with medication and compression therapy.
- Rehabilitation: Gradual improvement in strength, circulation, and mobility over 2–3 months.
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Rehabilitation goals:
- Prevent clot recurrence through consistent activity.
- Strengthen lower-leg muscles to support venous return.
- Encourage healthy circulation and tissue healing.
- Educate patients on long-term prevention strategies.
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With consistent follow-up and adherence to medical advice, most patients make a full recovery.
Long-Term Outlook and Prevention
With proper treatment, the risk of complications from DVT is significantly reduced. However, preventive care is essential, especially after orthopedic surgery or prolonged immobility.
Prevention tips:
- Move regularly — avoid sitting for long periods.
- Wear compression stockings during travel or recovery.
- Stay well-hydrated and maintain circulation through ankle flexion exercises.
- Avoid smoking and maintain a balanced diet.
- Follow all post-surgical rehabilitation and medication instructions.
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Preventive action and awareness save lives.
When to Seek Medical Care
You should seek immediate care if you experience:
- Sudden leg swelling, warmth, or discoloration.
- Sharp calf pain that worsens with standing or walking.
- Shortness of breath or chest pain.
- Coughing up blood or rapid heart rate.
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These may be signs of DVT or pulmonary embolism and require urgent medical attention.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we understand the connection between orthopedic injury, limited mobility, and DVT risk. Our goal is to help you stay safe, recover faster, and prevent recurrence through coordinated, evidence-based care.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, providing early recognition and collaborative management for DVT and related lower-leg conditions.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon committed to comprehensive patient care.
