Do compression socks help on long flights?

Compression sock benefits One of the most well-known perks of compression socks is how they can help to prevent blood clots, a worry for many when traveling by air. They work to stimulate circulation in the lower half, which is especially useful during long flights when you're sitting for prolonged periods.



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It's recommended to start wearing compression socks before you board your flight or hop in the car for a long trip. Since it's safe to wear your travel compression socks for 16+ hours, don't worry about putting them on early in the day. I bought compression socks for the whole family for a 9-hour air flight.

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“Although long distance air travel increases the risk of DVT, the risk is still low. Patients who are at higher baseline risk for DVT or PE should wear compression stockings to reduce their risk of DVT, especially for long flights,” said Dr.

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Increasing leg muscle activity during long periods of sitting improves blood flow in the legs. This may include walk- ing around the cabin or exercising your lower legs and ankles while seated. Drinking adequate fluids, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, may also help by preventing dehydration.

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Stretching and moving on such a long flight is key to avoiding swelling and discomfort in the legs. Throwing on a pair of compression socks can also reduce swelling and alleviate the pins-and-needles sensation.

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Compression socks come in many different levels of compression but for flying, socks with 8-20 mmHg are going to be your best bet. Many socks will fall in between this range like 8-15 mmHg, 12-14 mmHg or 15-20 mmhg. Compression levels over 20 mmHg are best worn when prescribed by a doctor.

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They Reduce Swelling. Compression pantyhose gently squeeze your legs and feet, so they simply don't leave room for the fluid to collect and cause swelling. Plus, the graduated pressure of compression stockings encourages those fluids to keep moving, which further contributes to the decrease in swelling.

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Even if you have healthy veins, long periods of inactivity can cause swelling and discomfort in the legs. Fortunately, compression socks make great travel companions due to their ability to boost circulation.

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Each airline has a different definition of what a long-haul flight is. However, a long-haul flight is generally any direct or non-stop flight that has a journey time of between 6–12 hours.

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This ensures you have adequate room to adjust your socks to ensure the correct fit and will combat the effects of pooling before they take place. Depending on your comfort level, you can remove your socks once you have disembarked the aircraft, or during your flight if you find the compression too much.

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Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots. Taking aspirin to prevent blood clots when traveling is not recommended.

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Your GP will not be able to advise on the use of anticoagulants for flying as it is a specialist issue, so allow plenty of time to get an opinion from your specialist. Note: aspirin is not used to prevent DVT.

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