If you intend on travelling long distances be on the safe side and get yourself a pair of flight socks / travel socks. Why? Research has shown that long periods of sitting without moving during flight, in a car or train can increase the risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). If you experience swollen or painful legs you may have experienced DVT.
Some DVT facts
What is DVT? |
|
DVT Symptoms
|
|
Is DVT rare |
|
How to reduce DVT |
|
What do flight / travel socks do?
Flight socks provide support and compression for your legs. It is the compression in these socks, which minimizes the swelling and consequently decreases the risk of developing DVT.
Your flight risk checklist
Journey length > 4 hours? | 1 point |
Are you older than 40? | 1 point |
Are you overweight? | 1 point |
Are you aged 60 or above? | 2 points |
Are you taking the pill? | 1 point |
Do you get frequent swelling of the legs when travelling? | 1 point |
Do you have a family history of thrombosis in the family? | 1 point |
Do you have pronounced varicose veins? | 2 points |
Are you pregnant? | 2 points |
Have you delivered a baby less than 2 months ago? | 2 points |
Do you have heart problems? | 2 points |
Do you have cancer? | 2 points |
Have you had a plaster cast or operation during the last two months? | 2 points |
Have you a history of thrombosis, embolism or clotting problems? | 3 points |
Now tally your score to determine how at risk of DVT your are.
1-5 Points | When travelling long distances you should wear a pair of flight / travel socks to protect against DVT |
6+ Points | Consult your Doctor about the best preventative measures prior to travel |
Wrap up
So there you have it. The risk of DVT for a healthy person travelling under six hours is relatively low. However, if your flight is over six hours and you are at risk then wearing flight / travel socks during flight may be the best investment you've ever made. As always, if you are unsure please consult with your doctor.
2 comments
Alice
it was waterproof. The ohetrs I researched all said weather resistant, that worried me. Great deal and I highly recommend it.Help other customers find the most helpful reviewsa0Was this review helpful to you?a0 | a0
Rufinito
they would be fine and they were. Didn’t supplement them with any other type of srtpas. All in all, this is an excellent product for the price. Best part is we can fold it up and store it away in minimal space unlike the rigid type roof carriers.Help other customers find the most helpful reviewsa0Was this review helpful to you?a0 | a0