Stephen D. Coombs: Superficial Venous Thrombosis in Athletes and Importance of Early Recognition and Referral
Stephen D. Coombs, Clinical Informaticist at Fred Hutch, shared a post on LinkedIn about a recent article he and his colleagues co authored, published in JOSPT, adding:
“In 2024, I had the opportunity to co author a case report published in Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT) Cases titled ‘Unrecognized Superficial Venous Thrombosis in a Division 1 Female Athlete: A Case Report.’
The recent news surrounding Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and his diagnosis of superficial venous thrombosis (SVT), subsequently identified as deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, brings attention to an important topic in sports medicine.
Our report detailed the presentation of a collegiate basketball player who developed SVT of the basilic vein following shoulder surgery.
Through clinical examination, recognition of atypical symptoms, and appropriate referral for diagnostic imaging, the condition was identified and medically managed.
The athlete was able to continue rehabilitation while receiving anticoagulation treatment, ultimately achieving complete resolution of the thrombosis.
Although the clinical circumstances differ from those of Jalen Hurts, both cases highlight several important considerations:
- Vascular complications can occur even in young, otherwise healthy elite athletes.
- Recognizing signs and symptoms outside the expected musculoskeletal presentation is an essential component of clinical practice.
- Collaboration between rehabilitation professionals and the broader medical team is critical to athlete safety and recovery.
As physical therapists, our responsibility extends beyond treating musculoskeletal injuries. Recognizing when something doesn’t fit the expected clinical picture can be just as important as the rehabilitation itself.”
Title: Unrecognized Superficial Venous Thrombosis in a Female Division-1 Athlete: A Case Report
Authors: Stephen D. Coombs, Martin Borhani, Adam Wielechowski
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