Compression Hosiery and Air Travel

As more people travel long distances by air, the problem of travel-related leg discomfort is on the rise. The reason is that during air travel, blood circulation within your legs is reduced while your movement is constrained.

Lack of movement can cause many common symptoms such as heavy, fatigued, tired legs, leg pain, or swollen feet and ankles.

Prolonged sitting is also a risk factor for the development of thrombosis (blood clot formation). In some cases blood clots can migrate to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism.

The risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) applies to any type of long distance travel that involves long periods of sitting.

One effective way to increase leg and foot comfort during long distance travel is by wearing graduated compression socks. High quality compression socks and stockings prevent many symptoms like swelling and also helps reduce the risk of developing DVT.

Compression therapy works because the application of external pressure to the limbs reduces venous pressure within the limb. Wearing graduated compression socks or stockings will support your veins and increase blood circulation.

Remember the heart pumps blood against gravity up the veins of the legs. With normal levels of activity, the contraction and relaxation of the calf muscles around the veins helps move blood toward the heart. This natural “pumping” effect of the calf muscles is not available when you are inactive for long periods.

Some people have an inherited weakness of the vein walls or valves, which creates additional challenges to venous circulation.

Wearing high quality compression socks or stockings, such as “Sigvaris”, is vital for the prevention and treatment of varicose veins and other circulatory problems, especially for individuals who are at risk.