Relieving Discomfort in a "Clot Leg"

If you have suffered from DVTs, especially in your lower leg, there are several ways to help the swelling go down and to return color to your leg.

As discussed in an earlier post, one of the best ways is to swim. But what if you are in an area with no pool, or the weather prevents you from swimming regularly? Or maybe you don't know how to swim. If so, there is another wonderful way.

Turn on the hot water in the bath, then lay down on your back. Put your foot and leg under the running water for approximately two minutes, then move it over and put your foot on the wall as high as you can and elevate your leg for approximately two more minutes. Then put it back under the water.

For me, about 15 to 20 minutes of this ritual will usually do the trick. Normally when the hot water starts running low, I know its time to get out.

This will usually keep my leg white and get rid of the swelling for at least a few hours. It doesn't last long, but just that little bit of relief will either let me walk around better that day, or sleep better at night.