Musings from a massage therapist

The dangers of modern living

We have all heard of DVT but the media coverage has tended to link this with flying. DVT's aren't solely linked with flying. Our inactive lifestyles are a major contributing factor such as sitting for long periods of time, driving long distances, etc.

What are the signs of a possible problem? 

• An ache or pain in the calf that does not change with activity (i.e. it is constantly present).  If the pain was due to muscle exertion, it would ache when walking or other such activities.
• You don't remember doing anything such as straining the muscle to cause the pain.
• There may be associated swelling in the leg and the skin of the leg may feel warm to the touch.

If these signs fit,  then you need to quickly see your GP to rule out a DVT.

Look at http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/html/Deep_Vein_Thrombosis.html for further information and more details relating to DVT symptoms.

A recent study has suggested that women who are not very active are at more of a risk of DVT.   Women who sat for more than 41 hours were at greater risk than women who sat for less than 10 hours/week.   A short review is available here: http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/07/05/get-moving-more-health-risks-of-sitting-reported

Bascially, remember to try to put a bit more physical activity into your day.  Your body will definitely thank you for it!