Case Study – Mr F
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blockage in the blood vessels returning blood to the heart. This usually happens in the legs and is more common amongst people with pre-existing cardiovascular problems, those taking certain medications and during periods of limited physical activity.
Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening complications, and as such warrants emergency medical attention.
Mr F has visited us before for low back pain, and made an appointment having had a recent onset of leg pain that he assumed was sciatica.
On presentation, Mr F related that his leg pain had come on subsequent to flying home from holiday. Flying is a common factor in mechanical leg pain, but being stationary for a long time such as on a flight also increases the chances of developing DVT.
On examination, it was noticed that Mr F had whole-leg pain rather than pain in a specific nerve distribution. Whole leg pain is an immediate flag for vascular rather than neurological pain.
It was also noted that Mr F had swelling of his lower leg, and less obvious peripheral pulses. Other signs that were also present included redness and skin hot to the touch.
We advised Mr F to make his way to A&E immediately. Fortunately Mr F’s wife had visited the clinic with him and was able to drive him to hospital, negating the need for an ambulance.
On arriving in A&E, triage agreed with the suspected diagnosis of DVT and placed Mr F on anti-clotting medication that can break-down blood clots. A blood test was also carried to confirm the diagnosis.
With this rapid referral and immediate treatment Mr F made a full recovery and was able to leave hospital the same day.
Although not a case where chiropractic treatment was provided, this case illustrates the most important aspect of chiropractic care; diagnostic expertise.
Chiropractors are uniquely positioned to provide proper assessment of musculoskeletal conditions, which includes screening for and ruling out diseases that can mimic them.
Our chiropractors place a huge emphasis on this responsibility and it is this approach that sets them apart.
If you are worried about what is causing your symptoms, or frustrated that nobody seems to be able to get to the bottom of things, get in touch. Our chiropractors will take the time to properly assess you and find out what is going on.
