Medically reviewed by Sanjiv Lakhanpal, MD, FACS, and Khanh Q. Nguyen, DO, RPVI, on October 13, 2025
When San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama returned to the court this October after an eight-month hiatus, fans erupted in applause—not only for his skill, but for what his comeback represented: resilience after a serious vascular health scare.
The 7-foot-3 phenom, sidelined since February due to a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), made his preseason debut against the Loong Lions with nine points, ten rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks—an efficient, confident performance that showcased both his physical and emotional recovery.
While Wembanyama’s story is one of triumph, it also underscores an important truth: circulatory health matters, even for the young and athletic.
Wembanyama’s diagnosis earlier this year, a blood clot in his right shoulder, was a shock to the basketball world. DVTs occur when a clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs, though it can occur elsewhere in the body. Left untreated, it can become life-threatening if part of the clot travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).
While Wembanyama’s condition was promptly diagnosed and treated, his experience serves as a wake-up call for anyone who thinks vein disease only affects older adults. Vein disorders, including varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), can quietly increase one’s risk for vascular complications, even in active individuals.
At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), our focus is on identifying and treating the underlying vein problems that can lead to leg pain, swelling, heaviness, and, in some cases, superficial blood clots (known as superficial thrombophlebitis).
Varicose veins develop when valves inside the veins, tiny one-way flaps that help move blood back to the heart, become weakened or fail. Blood pools in the legs, pressure builds, and veins twist and bulge near the surface. Over time, sluggish circulation in these damaged veins can lead to inflammation and the formation of blood clots, especially in the lower limbs.
Unlike the deep-vein clots associated with DVT, superficial clots that form within varicose veins rarely travel to the lungs or cause life-threatening complications. However, they can be painful, red, and swollen, and they’re a sign that circulation needs attention.
The takeaway? Even if you’re healthy or athletic, poor circulation should never be ignored.
Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Circulation
If you’ve noticed leg pain, swelling, or visible veins, it may be time for a professional evaluation. Center for Vein Restoration’s board-certified specialists diagnose and treat varicose veins using minimally invasive, office-based procedures that restore comfort and improve circulation.
📞Call 240-965-3915 or schedule your consultation online and keep your legs—and your life—moving forward.
When varicose veins go untreated, blood can stagnate, creating an ideal environment for clot formation. Most of these clots remain superficial, but in severe cases, or when combined with other risk factors like immobility, obesity, or hormonal therapy, they can increase the likelihood of developing deep vein thrombosis.
Watch for symptoms such as:
If you notice these signs, don’t wait! A vein evaluation by a board-certified vein expert, like those at Center for Vein Restoration, can determine whether your circulation is healthy or whether treatment is needed to prevent complications.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-965-3915
📅 Or book online HERE
During his eight months off the court, Wembanyama’s training took a holistic turn. He spent time at the Shaolin Temple in China, where early morning meditation and martial arts training strengthened both his mind and body. He also trained with NBA legends Hakeem Olajuwon and Kevin Garnett, refining his footwork and defensive awareness, skills that rely on balance, endurance, and healthy legs.
His return wasn’t just physical. His demeanor on the court reflected composure, maturity, and leadership, qualities that often emerge when athletes face and overcome adversity.
As Spurs assistant coach Mitch Johnson put it, the goal now is to build Wembanyama’s minutes carefully, maintaining his conditioning while avoiding overexertion. It’s a smart approach, and one that mirrors how Center for Vein Restoration vein physicians encourage patients recovering from varicose vein treatment.
At Center for Vein Restoration, every patient receives a customized vein care recovery plan from a board-certified vein specialist. The following are the key stages of recovery:
Day 1:
Patients typically return to daily activities immediately and are encouraged to walk often. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous workouts until cleared. Wear compression stockings during the day for at least three days, and up to two to four weeks to support healing.
Week 1–2:
Mild bruising or soreness is normal. High-impact exercise, contact sports, and heavy weights should wait until your CVR doctor approves—usually within one to two weeks.
Weeks 2–4 and Beyond:
Low-impact exercises, such as cycling, swimming, or light strength training, may resume once the incisions have healed. Gradually increase intensity and stop if swelling, pain, or redness occurs.
Healing Timeline:
Most patients resume everyday routines right away, with full recovery taking two to four weeks for minor procedures and up to several months for more extensive care. Vein disease is a chronic condition, so follow-ups are essential to maintain results and prevent recurrence.
For personalized guidance or a follow-up appointment, call 240-965-3915 or schedule online ⬇️
Being tall gives Wembanyama a clear advantage on the court—but research shows it also increases the risk of vein problems. Studies from the National Library of Medicine (NIH) indicate that for every 10-centimeter increase in height, the risk of DVT rises by about 30–40 percent. The reason is simple: longer leg veins mean blood must travel farther against gravity, which can slow flow and increase pressure.
While Wembanyama’s clot was unrelated to varicose veins, his case reminds us that tall individuals, those who sit or stand for extended periods, or people with a family history of vein disease should be especially proactive about maintaining good circulation health.
If varicose veins are already affecting your comfort or appearance, outpatient minimally invasive vein treatments, such as sclerotherapy or laser therapy, can treat diseased veins and restore healthier circulation.
Victor Wembanyama’s return to basketball after a blood clot is a story of resilience—but it’s also a reminder of how essential vascular health is to overall well-being. Whether you’re an athlete or an office worker, your veins play a crucial role in maintaining your body's strength, balance, and energy.
At Center for Vein Restoration, our board-certified physicians specialize in treating varicose veins and venous insufficiency, helping patients reduce pain, swelling, and cosmetic concerns while lowering their risk for complications like superficial clots.
Healthy veins keep you moving—on the court, at work, and in life. Don’t wait for symptoms to sideline you. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better vein health.
📞 Call 240-965-3915or visit centerforvein.com to find a location near you.
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