Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right calf, a condition that has sidelined him indefinitely. The announcement has raised concerns among fans and the basketball community, as the nine-time All-Star faces a serious medical challenge that requires careful management.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein located deep within the body, most commonly in the legs. In Lillard’s case, the clot was identified in his calf. DVT can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness, and warmth in the affected area. However, in some cases, it may present no symptoms at all, making early detection crucial.
The primary danger of DVT lies in the potential for the clot to dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism—a life-threatening condition that blocks blood flow to the lungs. This underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment.
DVT can result from a variety of factors, including prolonged immobility, injury to a vein, or underlying medical conditions that increase blood clotting. Athletes, despite their high levels of physical activity, are not immune to DVT. Long flights, dehydration, or even minor injuries can contribute to the development of clots. In Lillard’s case, the exact cause has not been disclosed, but the Bucks’ medical team acted swiftly to address the issue.
The cornerstone of DVT treatment is anticoagulant therapy, commonly known as blood thinners. These medications prevent the clot from growing larger and reduce the risk of new clots forming. Lillard has been placed on a regimen of blood thinners, and his progress will be closely monitored through regular medical evaluations.
Recovery from DVT varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s overall health. Most people recover within a few weeks to months, but the timeline can be longer for athletes who need to meet specific physical criteria before returning to play. Lillard will likely undergo additional treatments, such as wearing compression stockings to improve blood flow and reduce swelling, as well as engaging in light physical activity to promote circulation.
Dr. Jennifer Robinson, a vascular specialist, explains that while DVT is less common in athletes, it is not unheard of.
“Athletes are generally at lower risk due to their active lifestyles, but factors like dehydration, long periods of immobility during travel, or even trauma to the veins can increase the likelihood of developing a clot,” she says. “The key to recovery is early detection and adherence to a comprehensive treatment plan.”
Dr. Robinson also emphasizes the importance of gradual reintegration into physical activity.
“Athletes recovering from DVT need to be cautious about resuming intense training. The focus should be on low-impact exercises that promote circulation without putting undue strain on the body.”
Lillard’s absence is a significant blow to the Milwaukee Bucks, who are vying for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. Averaging 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds this season, Lillard has been a cornerstone of the team’s success alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.
While DVT is a serious condition, Lillard’s early diagnosis and proactive treatment significantly improve his outlook. With the support of the Bucks organization and his medical team, he is well-positioned to make a full recovery.
For our German speaking readers: When Victor Wembanyama was diagnosed with a thrombosis (not the same, but similar situation), we recorded an episode of our “Vom Parkplatz” Podcast with expert, Dr. med. Hartmut Werle, who is a specialist when it comes to cardiovascular diseases. You’ll find it here:
