Leg cramps = Blood clot?

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I'm practicing for NCLEX-RN. There is one explanation for 1 answer that doesn't make sense to me:

Cramping in the calf = blood clot possibility (the pt is total knee replacement post-op).

I've googled it all but couldn't find how cramping may indicate blood clot possibility.

Physiologically speaking, cramping sensation results from the spasm of the muscle. Blood clot, in my novice understanding, does not cause spasm? So, if anyone could please explain to me? Thx!!! :nurse:

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Oh, I think I've got the answer. Blood clot may cause ischemia. Ischemia may cause leg cramps. Therefore, when pt experiences leg cramps, there's a possibility that there's a blood clot. Agree?

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Specializes in ER.

Calf pain is a common symptom of DVT, although it could be other things as simple as a pulled muscle. For a pt who has risk factors, as this pt does, it increases the index of suspicion. Look up Homan's sign to get more details about assessing this.

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Stasis, which is backflow, causing ischemia. Ischemia = poor blood flow = cramping and pain. Think of angina ischemia causing pain. Caused by thrombi!

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Specializes in orthopedic & HDU.
Oh, I think I've got the answer. Blood clot may cause ischemia. Ischemia may cause leg cramps. Therefore, when pt experiences leg cramps, there's a possibility that there's a blood clot. Agree?

BINGO

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I think you are right :) Specifically since your patient is a post op TKR client, the risk for blood clot formation is increased. Blood clot causes obstruction. Obstruction causes impaired blood flow which produces ischemia. Ischemia then makes use of anaerobic metabolism having Prostaglandin as its end product. Prostaglandin is an irritant to the blood vessels causing spasm. :)

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