Joe A Shaw PA-C - 5/11/2008

Question
I have a 28yo brother who is about 6'6" and around 320lbs.  I have noticed at the gym when we are exercising, he will begin to develop a golf ball sized edematous mass on his inner calf.  After resting it will go away.  He does not complain of any pain, and I do not notice any pulsation to the mass, or any distal circulation problems.  I was wondering if you had any ideas as to what this might be?

Answer
Sara,
No I don't know for sure what that could be..he might have ruptured a vessel or muscle..and when he exercises that naturally pumps more blood in the vessel/muscle area via circulation. It could be like the pea under the mattress effect..so you may not feel pulsation or see discoloration. I would have it ckd out..to make sure he doesnt have some type of phlebitis that could cause a clot.