Flying can be an exciting part of any journey, but it also comes with challenges, especially when it involves long hours sitting in a confined space. Among the common discomforts of air travel are swollen feet, aching legs, and the more serious risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Fortunately, there’s a simple and effective solution to these problems: compression socks.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using compression socks when flying, how they work, and why they should be a must-have item in your carry-on for your next flight.
What Are Compression Socks?
Compression socks are specially designed stockings that apply gentle pressure to your legs and ankles. This pressure helps improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and prevent blood clots. Unlike regular socks, which are primarily about comfort or style, compression socks serve a functional purpose by supporting your circulatory system, particularly during situations like long flights.
Why Flying Can Be Hard on Your Legs
When you fly, especially on long-haul flights, you spend a lot of time sitting in a cramped position. This can lead to a range of issues, including:
- Reduced Circulation: Sitting for long periods slows down your blood flow, particularly in your legs. This can cause blood to pool in your lower extremities, leading to swelling, discomfort, and an increased risk of DVT.
- Swelling: The combination of reduced circulation and the cabin’s pressurized environment often leads to swelling in the feet and ankles. This can make your shoes feel tighter and lead to discomfort during and after your flight.
- DVT Risk: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. DVT is a particular concern during long flights due to the prolonged periods of immobility.
How Do Compression Socks Help?
Compression socks combat the negative effects of flying by providing graduated pressure to your legs. Here’s how they work:
- Improved Blood Flow: The gentle pressure applied by compression socks helps your veins push blood back up toward your heart, improving circulation. This is crucial when you’re sitting for long periods, as it prevents blood from pooling in your legs.
- Reduced Swelling: By promoting better circulation, compression socks help minimize the swelling that often occurs during flights. This means your feet and ankles are less likely to feel tight and uncomfortable when you land.
- DVT Prevention: One of the most important benefits of compression socks is their role in reducing the risk of DVT. By keeping your blood moving, they help prevent the formation of blood clots in your legs.
Choosing the Right Compression Socks for Flying
Not all compression socks are created equal, and it’s important to choose the right type for your needs. Here are a few things to consider when selecting compression socks for flying:
- Compression Level: Compression socks come in different levels of pressure, usually measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). For flying, a moderate compression level of 15-20 mmHg is typically recommended. This provides enough support without being too tight.
- Length: Compression socks are available in various lengths, from ankle-length to knee-high. For flying, knee-high socks are generally the best option as they cover the entire lower leg, providing comprehensive support.
- Material: Look for socks made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials. This ensures that your feet stay comfortable and dry throughout your flight.
- Fit: It’s important that your compression socks fit well. They should be snug but not overly tight. If they’re too loose, they won’t provide the necessary support, and if they’re too tight, they could cause discomfort.
Our Recommendations for Compression Socks
- Open-toe compression socks 18-20mmHG: socks with an open space in the front to leave the toes free to wiggle. Comes in a pack of 3, white, grey and black. Click here to buy on eBay.
- Calf compression sleeves: a sleeve/sock that is only worn on the calf and leaves the feet free. Black in colours. Click here to buy on eBay.
- Ankle-length open-toe compression socks: a pack of four pairs of compression socks, comes in black or white. Click here to but on eBay.
- Pink-heeled black compression socks: these knee-high compression socks come with a pink heel, making them slightly more fashionable than the plain coloured ones. Click here to buy on eBay.
- Wide-calf compression socks: these socks are suited for people who have wider calf-areas. They are rated 20-30mmHG. Click here to buy on eBay.
How to Use Compression Socks When Flying
Wearing compression socks is simple, but here are a few tips to ensure you get the most benefit from them:
- Put Them On Before Your Flight: It’s best to put on your compression socks before you board your flight, ideally before you leave home. This way, they’re already in place when you start sitting for long periods.
- Wear Them Throughout the Flight: Keep your compression socks on for the entire duration of the flight, especially if it’s a long one. If you’re on a very long-haul flight, consider keeping them on for a few hours after landing as well to support your circulation as you move around.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps keep your blood flowing smoothly, which complements the effects of the compression socks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can lead to dehydration.
- Move Around When Possible: While compression socks are highly effective, it’s also important to move around during the flight. Take short walks up and down the aisle, and do some simple leg exercises in your seat to further promote circulation.
Who Should Use Compression Socks When Flying?
Compression socks are beneficial for almost anyone flying, but they are especially recommended for:
- Frequent Flyers: If you travel often, compression socks can help prevent the cumulative effects of frequent long flights on your legs.
- Older Adults: As circulation naturally slows with age, older adults are more susceptible to swelling and DVT, making compression socks an important precaution.
- Pregnant Women: Pregnancy increases the risk of blood clots, so compression socks can be particularly useful during flights.
- Those with Pre-Existing Conditions: If you have a history of DVT, varicose veins, or circulation issues, compression socks are a wise choice when flying.
Compression socks may seem like a small addition to your travel routine, but they can make a significant difference in your comfort and health when flying. By improving circulation, reducing swelling, and lowering the risk of DVT, they help ensure that you arrive at your destination feeling better and ready to enjoy your trip.
So, the next time you’re preparing for a flight, don’t forget to pack a pair of compression socks—they’re an investment in your health that you’ll appreciate long after you’ve landed.