Sitting for long periods during a flight, or a long car ride can lead to poor circulation, causing leg and ankle swelling, discomfort, and even more serious issues like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Research has shown that the best compression socks for travel: 20-30mmHg graduated compression socks can be an effective and simple way to counter these effects.
Why Swelling Occurs on Long Trips
When you sit for extended periods, blood tends to pool in your lower legs due to limited movement, leading to swelling (edema). This is a common issue for travelers, particularly during trips lasting more than four hours.
How Travel Compression Socks Help
Compression socks apply graduated pressure, which is tightest at the ankle and gradually loosens as it moves up the leg. This helps push blood back toward the heart, improving circulation and reducing swelling. Research shows that wearing 20-30 mmHg compression socks significantly reduces leg swelling during long flights (Clarke, 2006).
Preventing DVT
DVT, a potentially dangerous condition where blood clots form in deep veins, is another risk associated with long flights. Studies have demonstrated that compression socks can reduce the incidence of symptomless DVT by up to 90% (Scurr, 2001). Compression socks help maintain blood flow, decreasing the likelihood of clots forming in the lower legs.
Conclusion
If you're planning a long flight, wearing 20-30 mmHg compression socks can help reduce leg swelling and prevent DVT. If you plan on picking up a pair, check out our compression socks here. They're made with 20-30mmHg using sweat-wicking nylon to keep your feet dry and comfortable during a long flight.
More Info
Here's a blog post all about how how compression socks can help in sport. Check out this post on the various types of compression socks that are out there. Here's a guide on how to choose the right compression level for you. Here's a list of the symptoms compression socks can help with.
If you're really curious, checkout our Complete Guide to Compression Socks for answers to every question you might have on compression socks and how they can help.