If you’ve been at the airport recently you may have noticed a growing prevalence of people sporting high socks with their choice travel footwear. It turns out this compression sock style is a lot more than a fashion statement.
Compression socks are being recognized as essential for flights, akin to the infamous neck pillow accessory. Studies have shown that wearing compression stockings during long-haul flights may reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs by more than 12 times! Learn more about this potentially life-saving trend.
The Danger of Economy-Class Syndrome.
“Economy-Class Syndrome” is a playful term for the not so playful instance of Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a dangerous type of blood clot that develops in the deep veins of the legs, torso, or arm. These clots can grow, break off, and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs and cause a life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism.
The chances of experiencing DVT are increased during transoceanic air travel. The longer you sit without intermittent breaks, the greater your chances become for developing a clot. If you experience cramping in your legs or fall asleep in a seated position for hours at a time, you could be at risk.
Compression Socks and Air Travel
In a recent study, researchers analyzed knee-length graduated compression stockings and the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
The results showed that two of the 1,237 participants who wore the compression stockings developed deep vein thrombosis after a long flight compared with 46 of the 1,245 passengers who didn't wear the stockings. The authors concluded that a passenger not wearing graduated compression stockings was 12.5 times more likely to develop DVT.
Researchers say wearing the compression stockings appeared to be effective in reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis, but the stockings did little to reduce the risk of clots developing in smaller veins in the body, a condition which rarely causes serious complications.
More Ways to Increase Circulation During Air Travel
In addition to using compression socks during your flights, you can maintain circulation throughout travel with these additional tips:
- Walk around the airport prior to boarding, get the blood flowing as much as you can before an extended period of sitting
- Stay hydrated and forego an alcoholic beverage or coffee for tea or water
- Get up throughout your flight to engage in stretches or simply pace the aisles when it is safe to do so
- Try to get an aisle seat for long flights so you can easily get up and move freely without disturbing other passengers
Browse Compression Socks
Healthcare Solutions carries a wide selection of compression socks that can be used during air travel. These socks can help to:
- Draw moisture away from the skin
- Regulate body temperature
- Prevent mild venous symptoms
- Alleviate fatigue in legs
- Prevent lactic acid buildup during exercise
- Increase circulation
Venosan Supportline 18-22mmHg
$24.95
