Is Massage an Effective Treatment for DVT?

Name: Center for Vein Restoration
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May 20, 2025

Written By Center for Vein Restoration

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that forms when a blood clot (thrombus) develops in a deep vein, typically in the legs. If left untreated, these clots can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE).

Given the dangers of DVT, it’s natural for people to explore various ways to relieve symptoms or reduce their risk. In their search for solutions to this painful, scary condition, people often wonder if massage can help treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In this blog, we’ll examine this idea and offer safer, more effective ways to manage DVT and reduce your risk.

Don’t take chances with your health (and in the case of PE, your life!). Schedule a consultation with a Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein specialist today to discuss your symptoms and find the safest, most effective treatment options for your vein problems.

What Causes Deep Vein Thrombosis?

DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. These clots can partially or completely block blood flow, leading to pain, swelling, and potentially life-threatening complications if the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs. While a physician can often diagnose superficial clots with a physical exam, DVT requires an ultrasound for accurate detection.

Center for Vein Restoration, America’s largest physician-led vein center, offers a complete DVT rule-out service that provides high-priority, non-invasive DVT testing as an alternative to a hospital emergency room. This one-stop management approach includes a scan and treatment with anticoagulation, education, and follow-up care. Call the DVT hotline at 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).

Unlike superficial venous thrombosis (also known as phlebitis or superficial thrombophlebitis), which, according to the Cleveland Clinic, forms near the surface of the skin and rarely travels to the lungs, DVT can break loose and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Superficial clots can only pose this risk if they move into the deep venous system.

Deep vein blood clots can develop for a variety of reasons, including:

Prolonged Immobility: Sitting for long periods, like during long flights or car rides, can slow blood flow and increase the risk of clot formation.
Injury or Surgery: Trauma to the veins or surgery can damage the vein walls and trigger clotting.
Genetic Factors: According to the Mayo Clinic, certain genetic conditions, like Factor V Leiden, can make your blood more prone to clotting.
Other Risk Factors: Smoking, obesity, pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, and certain medical conditions like cancer can all elevate your risk.
Venous Insufficiency and Varicose Veins: Untreated varicose veins can lead to serious complications, such as DVT, which accounts for 60,000 to 100,000 deaths in the U.S. each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Further, according to the CDC, about 33 percent of people who experience DVT develop long-term complications, including pain, swelling, and skin changes in the affected limb.

Don’t Wait for Vein Symptoms to Become a Serious Health Risk

If you’re experiencing varicose veins, leg pain, swelling, or other signs of venous insufficiency, a consultation with a vein specialist at Center for Vein Restoration can help you understand your options and take control of your vein health. Our board-certified vein doctors offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments designed to reduce your risk of dangerous complications like DVT and improve your quality of life.

Take the first step toward healthier legs. Schedule your consultation at CVR today! We accept many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.

📞 Call CVR at 240-965-3915
📅 Or book online HERE

Why Massage is Not a Safe Option for DVT

While massage may seem like a comforting way to relieve leg pain or swelling, it’s not a safe option if you suspect or have been diagnosed with DVT. Here’s why:

Risk of Dislodging a Clot: Applying pressure to an area with a blood clot can dislodge it, allowing it to travel to your lungs and potentially cause a pulmonary embolism.
Increased Blood Flow Risk: Massage can increase blood flow and pressure in the veins, potentially worsening the condition.

The Professional Massage Academy (PMA), whose curriculum is reviewed and approved annually by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, strongly advises against massaging an area suspected of having a clot due to these significant risks:

“Massage is not recommended if you have a blood clot, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), as it can dislodge the clot, potentially causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Signs of a blood clot include deep pain, redness, swelling, and skin changes in the affected limb, often in the legs or arms. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.”

Instead, safer treatment options should be considered.

What to Do if You Suspect DVT

If you suspect you have DVT, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis can include:

Swelling in one leg
Pain or tenderness, often starting in the calf
Red or discolored skin
A feeling of warmth in the affected leg

If you notice any of these signs, do not attempt to massage the area. Instead, immediately contact a Center for Vein Restoration healthcare professional or visit your nearest emergency room. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to reducing the risk of serious complications.

Safer Alternatives for Managing Leg Pain and Swelling

While massage isn’t safe for DVT, there are safer, proven ways to manage leg pain and swelling:

Compression Stockings: These snug-fitting socks can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling by gently squeezing the legs, supporting vein function. A Center for Vein Restoration vein specialist can recommend the right fit and strength to help prevent clot formation. Call CVR at 240-965-3915 to find a board-certified vein specialist near you.
Movement and Exercise: Gentle exercises like walking or leg lifts can promote healthy blood flow without the risks associated with massage.
Elevating the Legs: Resting with your legs elevated above your heart level can reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Medications: Blood thinners (anticoagulants) may be prescribed to reduce clotting risk. The National Library of Medicine (NIH) notes that anticoagulant therapy can significantly reduce the risk of PE and recurrent DVT.
Vein Treatment Options: Minimally invasive outpatient vein treatments like endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) or sclerotherapy can improve vein function and reduce DVT risk for those with chronic venous insufficiency or varicose veins.

Research Sheds Light on Blood Clot Prevention

According to the American Blood Clot Association, physical activity is a simple way to boost circulation and lower your risk of blood clots. Walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, and yoga keep blood moving and reduce stagnation, while stretching and strengthening exercises can improve overall vein health. The Cleveland Clinic reports that intermittent pneumatic compression devices can reduce blood clots in hospitalized patients by simulating the muscle contractions that help pump blood through the veins.

Consult a CVR Vein Specialist for Safe, Effective Treatment

If you’re concerned about your risk for DVT blood clots or have symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, or varicose veins, it’s vital to seek expert advice. Center for Vein Restoration, with its network of board-certified vein doctors, specializes in diagnosing and treating vein disease. With over 110 locations and a commitment to patient-centered care, they’re here to help you look and feel your best.