Why is leg massage on a postsurgical patient contraindicated?

Leg massage on a postsurgical patient is contraindicated primarily due to the increased chance of blood clot or thrombus. Following surgery, particularly when performed on the lower extremities, patients may be at higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. This is often due to prolonged immobility or changes in blood flow after surgery.

Massaging the legs could potentially dislodge a thrombus if one is already present, leading to serious complications such as a pulmonary embolism, where a blood clot travels to the lungs and can be life-threatening. Therefore, in a postsurgical setting, it is crucial to avoid any movements or interventions that might exacerbate the risk of clot formation or dislodge an existing clot. This understanding is essential for providing safe care to patients recovering from surgery.