Ankle pump exercise (APE) is one of the basic measures to prevent the formation of deep vein thrombosis, which has been widely recognized for its advantages of simplicity, safety, and ease of perform. However, there is still controversy regarding the frequency, duration, angle, position, and adjunctive exercise of APE. This article will review the hemodynamic and hemorheological effects of APE for the prevention of DVT, the current status of clinical application, and new advances in adjunctive APE, in order to provide methods and guidance for clinical staff.