Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis in Young Athletes: Signs, Risk and What to Know

News of NBA superstar Victor Wembanyama being sidelined for the remainder of the season as the result of deep vein thrombosis, better known as a blood clot, stopped many in their tracks. Wembanyama is not the first high-profile NBA player or athlete to experience such a condition — former Miami Heat star Chris Bosh famously retired as a result of a clotting issue — but the news left many wondering about the cause and commonality of such a serious ailment in a high-level athlete at such a young age.

To help better inform patients, parents, coaches and others, we contacted social media influencer and leading sports medicine physician Jesse Morse, M.D., for an overview of what puts athletes at risk of deep vein thrombosis and how to identify signs and symptoms.

What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, commonly in the legs, and poses significant health risks, including the potential for pulmonary embolism. While often associated with older adults, deep vein thrombosis can also affect young athletes, with several factors contributing to its development in this population.

Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing deep vein thrombosis in young athletes can be challenging, as its symptoms often mimic common sports-related injuries. Typical manifestations include swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth and redness in the affected limb. These signs can be mistaken for muscle strains, shin splints or other minor injuries, potentially delaying accurate diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, individuals may experience no noticeable symptoms until a serious complication, such as a pulmonary embolism, occurs.

Risk Factors

Young athletes may be predisposed to deep vein thrombosis due to a combination of lifestyle and physiological factors. Prolonged immobility during long-distance travel to competitions can lead to venous stasis, increasing the risk of clot formation. Dehydration from intense physical activity can thicken the blood, further elevating this risk.

Additionally, traumatic injuries, such as fractures or muscle tears, are common in sports and can damage blood vessels, creating a conducive environment for clot development. Repetitive upper limb movements in sports like baseball or swimming may lead to upper extremity deep vein thrombosis, known as Paget-Schroetter disease. Moreover, taller athletes have a higher risk, with studies indicating that for every 10-centimeter increase in height, the risk of deep vein thrombosis increases by approximately 30% to 40%.