When should you put flight socks on before a flight?
As compression gear can take some time and practice when put on, it's best to put on your compression socks at the gate before you board the aircraft.
People Also Ask
During the Flight: Wear compression socks on plane trips, especially if it's a lengthy one. They help counteract the lack of movement and the effects of sitting for long durations. After Arrival: If you've been on a long flight, consider wearing your compression socks for a few more hours post-landing.
Compression socks help deter potential blood clots“Compression stockings and socks can promote comfort while traveling and be one of the easiest ways to avoid blood clots associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT),” explains Dr. Bob Bacheler, managing director and flight nurse at Flying Angels.
Graduated compression stockings or socks are usually recommended for flights that last longer than 3 hours, as this is when you will start to suffer physical health issues.
Compression socks prevent swellingSitting for prolonged periods is common on flights, which, due to gravity, causes fluid retention in your legs below the knee.
So, if you're asking yourself, 'Should I wear compression socks on a plane?' , the evidence certainly suggests that it's a good idea. It can significantly reduce the risk of developing blood clots and alleviate symptoms of leg fatigue and discomfort.
“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.
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.
#3 Doubling UpYou should not wear a normal pair of socks over your compression stockings. The compression stocking in itself will function as a normal sock too. Don't double up, there is no reason to.
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. If you take aspirin for other reasons, check with your doctor.