Thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, which can partially or completely block normal blood flow. Depending on where it occurs, the impact can be life-threatening, for example, a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the leg, a pulmonary embolism (PE) in the lungs, or even a stroke if a clot travels to the brain.
Yet despite its seriousness, many cases of thrombosis are preventable with early awareness, movement, and appropriate medical care.
Why Thrombosis Happens
A thrombosis can develop when the natural balance between clot formation and clot breakdown in the body is disrupted.
Common risk factors include:
- Prolonged immobility (long flights, bed rest, post-surgery recovery)
- Injury or trauma to a blood vessel
- Certain medications or medical conditions, such as cancer, pregnancy, or hormone therapy
- Dehydration or obesity
- Genetic clotting disorders
When blood flow slows or becomes turbulent, clots can form more easily. If these clots dislodge, they can travel through the bloodstream and block a vessel elsewhere, a dangerous and sometimes fatal complication.
The Role of the Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists play an essential role in both prevention and recovery from thrombosis.
Here’s how:
1. Encouraging Early Mobilisation
Movement is one of the body’s best natural defenses against clot formation. Physiotherapists help patients safely return to mobility after surgery, injury, or illness (preventing blood from pooling in the legs and improving circulation).
2. Prescribing Safe Exercises
For patients at risk of DVT, gentle ankle pumps, calf raises, and seated marches are vital. These exercises stimulate venous return, encouraging blood flow back to the heart.
3. Education & Awareness
Many patients underestimate the importance of small, frequent movements (especially during travel or recovery). Physios educate patients on how to stay active safely, perform leg movements during long flights, and recognise early warning signs of thrombosis (such as swelling, redness, pain, or warmth in one leg).
4. Post-Thrombotic Care
For patients recovering from a clot, physiotherapy aids in restoring mobility, reducing swelling, and rebuilding strength. Manual therapy, compression education, and gradual exercise progression all support recovery and quality of life.
Working Together: The Bigger Picture
Preventing thrombosis is a team effort. The Netcare Anticoagulant Stewardship Programme is a great example of multidisciplinary collaboration in action. This clinical pharmacist-led initiative helps doctors and allied health professionals use anticoagulant medications safely and effectively — from initiation and monitoring to discharge.
By preventing both overuse and underuse of anticoagulant therapy, the programme helps safeguard patients at every step of their care journey.
Daily digital reviews by Netcare clinical pharmacists ensure patients on blood-thinning medication are monitored closely, with personalised dose adjustments and ongoing risk evaluation.
As physiotherapists, we complement this process through movement-based interventions and patient education, bridging the gap between medical therapy and functional recovery.
Takeaway Message
Prevention is powerful.
Whether it’s through regular movement, physiotherapy-led rehabilitation, or careful anticoagulant management, we all have a role in stopping thrombosis before it starts.
So, from head to toe — take control of your health, stay active, stay informed, and keep the blood flowing.
