Leg Massage from Mom Turned Fatal for Young Man Because it Dislodged a Blood Clot

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A 23-year-old man from Delhi died unexpectedly after a massage intended to relieve pain resulted in the dislodging of a blood clot, according to a case report published in the Medico-Legal Journal in 2017. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder that not every pain can be massaged, particularly when deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a possible complication.

Photo byMedico-Legal Journal.

The Injury and Blood Clot Formation

The young man had fractured his ankle while playing badminton. His leg was immobilized in a cast to allow the bone to heal, but this extended immobility led to the formation of a blood clot in the deep veins of his leg, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

DVT can occur when blood flow is restricted for long periods, such as after surgery or when a limb is kept in a cast. Though uncommon, it is a well-documented risk for patients with bone injuries. The clot can become life-threatening if it dislodges and travels through the bloodstream, a complication the man tragically faced.

Mother’s Attempt to Relieve Pain Turns Fatal

Following the removal of the cast, the man continued to experience swelling and pain in his leg. In an effort to ease his discomfort, his mother gave him an oil massage on the affected area.

Unfortunately, this well-intended act led to a fatal outcome. During the massage, a large blood clot, measuring 5x1 cm, dislodged from the veins in his leg and traveled to the pulmonary artery, which is responsible for carrying blood to the lungs.

The sudden blockage caused by the clot, known as a pulmonary embolism, immediately cut off blood flow to the lungs, leading to the man’s death. He was rushed to hospital but was unresponsive by the time he arrived.

Doctor’s Warning on Massaging Injured Areas

Dr. Sudhir Gupta, head of forensic medicine at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), conducted the post-mortem examination, which confirmed that the dislodged clot was the cause of death. “The force applied during the massage dislodged the clot and resulted in the fatal embolism,” Dr. Gupta said.

He emphasized that people must avoid massaging areas that have been recently injured. “This should serve as a warning. While applying herbal oils or anti-inflammatory creams may be acceptable, no pressure should be applied on the affected area, as clots can dissolve on their own over time.”

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis

DVT is a serious condition that can occur after long periods of immobilization, such as with plaster casts. Though rare, it affects roughly 70 out of every 100,000 patients with bone injuries.

The condition is also a known risk for travelers on long-haul flights, where prolonged sitting in cramped spaces can cause blood to pool in the legs, increasing the risk of clot formation.

The Importance of Post-Injury Care

This unfortunate incident underscores the importance of proper medical guidance after an injury, particularly when blood clots are a potential concern. Massages, though often seen as beneficial for general health and minor injuries, can be dangerous if applied to recently injured areas without medical approval.

For anyone recovering from an injury, it is crucial to consult healthcare professionals if pain or swelling persists. While massages might seem like a natural way to provide relief, they can pose severe risks in situations where blood clots could be present. Always seek medical advice to ensure a safe recovery process.