Which recovery method is used to improve blood circulation and prevent deep vein thrombosis?

• A. Massage.
• B. Foam rolling.
• C. Compression garments.
• D. Cryotherapy.

Answer: (C)

External pressure on the limbs, as with compression garments, helps move blood back toward the heart and prevents it from pooling in the legs. They apply higher pressure at the ankle and gradually reduce it up the leg, creating a gradient that speeds venous return. This reduces venous stasis and edema, lowering the risk of deep vein thrombosis during recovery, especially after surgery or periods of limited movement.

Other methods can aid recovery or circulation locally—massage and foam rolling improve tissue mobility and blood flow in the area, but they don’t establish the continuous, gradient-driven venous return needed to prevent DVT. Cryotherapy reduces inflammation and may cause temporary vasoconstriction, but it isn’t used to promote venous return or prevent clots.