How Do Compression Stockings Help On Long Plane Trips?

As it is starting to get cold here in Melbourne, a lot of people are deciding to travel to the other side of the world to escape the cold weather.

This means sitting on a plane for a longer period of time, and this can cause a few things to occur.

• The blood vessels in your legs can be compressed while sitting down for a long period, making it harder for the blood to get back to the heart.
• Fluid returning back to the heart can be reduced and gravity can cause the fluid to collect at the lower legs, causing them to swell.
• It has been shown that prolonged immobility can be a risk factor for the formation of blood clots in the legs, this is called deep vein thrombosis. Some risk factors for blood clots can include: a history of blood clots, recent surgery, immobilisation, if you are aged 40 and up, pregnancy, smoking, obesity, dehydration, varicose veins and if you suffer from a chronic disease.

If you are going to be sitting on a long plane ride, compression stockings can help prevent swelling in the lower leg and help prevent a blood clot forming. While sitting on the plane it is also a good idea to do some light exercises with your legs and feet to help the blood flow and occasionally stand up and walk around the plane. If you suffer from any medical issues, it may also be a good idea to seek medical advice before your long plane trip.

Invest into some compression stockings for your next trip, it’s worth it.

Call us on 03 8645 9888 for an assessment and advice from one of our skilled Podiatrists or Book Online

Reference:

http://www.qantas.com/travel/airlines/your-health-inflight/global/en