Risks of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after spinal cord injury
Blood clots may form after a spinal cord injury because of decreased blood flow and movement in the legs. This becomes less common after a person has begun to get out of bed and is exercising.
Symptoms
- Swelling in one arm or one leg that looks bigger than the other
- Redness, pain, and hot or warm areas in the legs
- Lumpy or hard spot over or near a vein
- Low fever (99.F – 101.F) with no other signs of infection
Prevention
- Stay as active as possible. Do range of motion exercises every day.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.
- Cut down or stop smoking in order to improve circulation.
- Do not strain during a bowel movement.
- Check the legs for signs of DVT every morning before getting out of bed.
- Do not wear tight garters, girdles, tight jeans, tight socks, or knee-high boots.
- Wear TED hose if they have been ordered by your doctor.
Treatment
- If you think a DVT is present, call the doctor right away.
- Stay in bed and keep the leg straight.
- Do not rub the area or exercise it.
- Do not put pillows under the knee area.
- Remove tight shoes and clothing.