circulation socks

Compression Socks for Flying – why you might need them on your next long flight

If you love travelling, you’ll know that preparation is key. Whether you’re going for a Hawaiian getaway or exploring temples throughout South-East Asia, being prepared from the moment you leave home to the moment you’re back in the comfort of your own home is extremely important.  Amidst all the preparation required for visas, travel gear and accommodation, many of us end up forgetting to prepare for the flight ahead of us … and we’re not just talking about neck pillows and a hard drive full of your favourite movies, but something which can actually help with your health and wellbeing; compression socks.

 

Why would I need compression socks for flying?

Have you ever ended a long flight and realised that your ankles were so swollen that your foot no longer fits comfortably into its shoe?

Compression socks work by encouraging circulation in areas of the body where at times it becomes difficult for the body to do itself; such as when on a flight.  Due to the pressure of flying and the fact that for the majority of the time you’ll be seated, your feet, ankles and legs will be exposed to the effects of lack of circulation. This can be particularly dangerous for those that suffer from DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis).

Research shows that wearing compression socks or stockings during flights lasting more than 5 hours helps reduce DVT in people who show no symptoms.

https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/full-article/es/compression-stockings-preventing-deep-vein-thrombosis-airline-passengers-1550?hl=travel).

What would happen if I don’t use compression socks?

Depending on how susceptible you are to DVT and how well your body circulates blood whilst remaining sedentary will determine the types of effects that you could likely experience by not using compression socks.  One of the biggest risks of DVT is blood pooling.  When your blood pools in the veins for prolonged periods of time it can also cause clotting.  The risk with clotting is if a bit of the clot breaks off and travels throughout the body.  Depending on where the clot is and if it makes its way to the heart, lungs or brain, it can potentially have a fatal outcome.  This is why it’s so important to ensure that you’re properly prepared when flying.

What else can I do?

If you suffer from poor circulation or DVT, it’s recommended to perform some basic circulation boosting exercises throughout your flight.  Every couple of hours should be used as an opportunity to either walk up and down the aisleway, perform some simple squats and calf raises or to even massage your own legs and feet.  Even if you don’t suffer from either of the above, performing some basic exercises and taking necessary precautions can all help to prevent any health-related issues in the future.

Where can I get compression socks from?

At Caring Clothing, we have a wide range of compression socks available.  Our options include ankle-high socks as well as long socks.  Feel free to use the following link to browse through our inventory and Range.

 

If you’re having difficulties in finding what you’re after or if you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to the Caring Clothing team today.  You may call us directly on 1300 365 504.  For email enquiries, feel free to make them through our Contact Us page 

So, the next time you’re preparing a trip don’t forget to prepare for everything! By having a few pairs of compression socks on hand as well as your standard travel gear, you’ll be sure to feel prepared on your next long haul.