Compression socks for long flights?

I am a healthy 45yr old with no circulation problems. I'll be taking long flights (Washing, DC, Bhutan) and wonder if I should wear compression socks as a precaution. would drugstore grade be adequate or should i order medical quality?

Answers from doctors (9)


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Jan 10, 2012

Compression stocking use during long flights is always a good idea. Knee highs, 15-20 mmHg compression would be the recommended support.
Usually the Drug store variety are of a lesser compression and quality.
Generally blood clots that do occur during prolonged immobilization start in the Calf (Soleus veins).
Also, I recommend that patients avoid dehydration (excess alcohol),and frequent walking, as well as, calf/ankle pumps periodically/frequently while seated.
I generally recommend the Sigvaris, Jobst, Juzo, or medi brands.
You do not need an Rx for this level of compression.

Michael D. Ingegno, MD

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/922_1408044082.jpg
Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

Compression stocking use during long flights is always a good idea. Knee highs, 15-20 mmHg compression would be the recommended support.
Usually the Drug store variety are of a lesser compression and quality.
Generally blood clots that do occur during prolonged immobilization start in the Calf (Soleus veins).
Also, I recommend that patients avoid dehydration (excess alcohol),and frequent walking, as well as, calf/ankle pumps periodically/frequently while seated.
I generally recommend the Sigvaris, Jobst, Juzo, or medi brands.
You do not need an Rx for this level of compression.

Michael D. Ingegno, MD

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Nu Vela Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

Try the drugstore grade first. If not satisfied, then a medical grade
10-15mmHg or 15-20mmHg graduated compression stockings would do. These are
intended for everyday use and quite supportive. you can get them from any
reputable vein practice.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/992_1499978603.jpg
Answered by Nu Vela Vein Center

Try the drugstore grade first. If not satisfied, then a medical grade
10-15mmHg or 15-20mmHg graduated compression stockings would do. These are
intended for everyday use and quite supportive. you can get them from any
reputable vein practice.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


VeinCare Centers of Tennessee

Published on Jan 10, 2012

I would encourqge all adults who have normal pulses at the feet and no numbness in the feet to wear 30-40 mm Hg compression calf length support hose for travel. Frequent ankle pumps with contraction of the posterior calf muscles while sitting or standing would also be helpful. Avoid dehydration while flying as well.
Stephen F. Daugherty, MD, FACS, RVT, RPhS

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/755_1499906765.jpg
Answered by VeinCare Centers of Tennessee

I would encourqge all adults who have normal pulses at the feet and no numbness in the feet to wear 30-40 mm Hg compression calf length support hose for travel. Frequent ankle pumps with contraction of the posterior calf muscles while sitting or standing would also be helpful. Avoid dehydration while flying as well.
Stephen F. Daugherty, MD, FACS, RVT, RPhS

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

It will definitively recommend you to wear compression stockings. You need knee-high, at least 20-30mm Hg. They are available with prescription from a medical supply store.
...Remember, Sabrina Williams is also healthy, younger than you and without circulatory problems and she had a pulmonary embolism after a long flight.

Dr Farhy

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/923_1408044082.jpg
Answered by Heart and Vein Center

It will definitively recommend you to wear compression stockings. You need knee-high, at least 20-30mm Hg. They are available with prescription from a medical supply store.
...Remember, Sabrina Williams is also healthy, younger than you and without circulatory problems and she had a pulmonary embolism after a long flight.

Dr Farhy

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

There have been several studies that compression stocking help prevent blood
clots from forming when you are immobilized as occurs on a long flight. The
compression socks sold at drug stores if they fit right and are at least
20mmHg pressure will likely work.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

There have been several studies that compression stocking help prevent blood
clots from forming when you are immobilized as occurs on a long flight. The
compression socks sold at drug stores if they fit right and are at least
20mmHg pressure will likely work.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jan 10, 2012

Absolutely, you should wear compression socks. I do not recommend drugstore brands as they are typically less comfortable. A certified fitter should measure you and show you the different styles and strengths.

15-20 mmHg pressure is usually adequate for DVT prevention in most patients. However, if you are a person whose legs swell when you fly, you may want to start with 20-30 mmHg, which is medical grade. These socks come in many attractive styles and colors. We like the Sigvaris brand.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Absolutely, you should wear compression socks. I do not recommend drugstore brands as they are typically less comfortable. A certified fitter should measure you and show you the different styles and strengths.

15-20 mmHg pressure is usually adequate for DVT prevention in most patients. However, if you are a person whose legs swell when you fly, you may want to start with 20-30 mmHg, which is medical grade. These socks come in many attractive styles and colors. We like the Sigvaris brand.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

15-20 mm ok. 20-30 better but a little tight. Knee high ok.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/772_1408044077.jpg
Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

15-20 mm ok. 20-30 better but a little tight. Knee high ok.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center at University Medicine and Cardiology

Published on Sep 06, 2011

If your trip is longer than 3 hours, then yes, it is a good idea to wear compression stockings to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. Drugstore stockings should be adequate if they are in the 12-18 mmHg range of compression. You do not necessarily need higher compression for that purpose. As per usual, you can discuss this with your physician to ensure there is no contraindication to wearing compression stockings.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1245_1425080188.jpg
Answered by Vein Center at University Medicine and Cardiology

If your trip is longer than 3 hours, then yes, it is a good idea to wear compression stockings to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. Drugstore stockings should be adequate if they are in the 12-18 mmHg range of compression. You do not necessarily need higher compression for that purpose. As per usual, you can discuss this with your physician to ensure there is no contraindication to wearing compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Aug 22, 2011

Blood clots form in the leg due to venous stasis and increasing venous pressure due to the lack of muscle movement. Support hose work by compressing the calf muscles to reduce the venous pressure and increase the venous return to the heart. I recommend anyone flying or driving for over 2 hours to wear knee-length 20-30mmHg pressure compression.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Blood clots form in the leg due to venous stasis and increasing venous pressure due to the lack of muscle movement. Support hose work by compressing the calf muscles to reduce the venous pressure and increase the venous return to the heart. I recommend anyone flying or driving for over 2 hours to wear knee-length 20-30mmHg pressure compression.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings -7 answers
And should you be physically active while wearing the crompression socks?
See More
Compression Stockings -15 answers
I am 21 weeks pregnant and my whole leg and feet really hurt. I only have knee-length compression hose. Can I sleep with them on?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
How big of a size do compression stockings come in?
See More
Compression Stockings -10 answers
I got knee surgery and have been wearin the socks for 3 weeks with some rests a day. I walk on my leg so blood circulates and crutches help me in public. Is it safe to not wear the stockings at all anymore? I just really don't want a blood clot.
See More
Compression Stockings -12 answers
I wear compression stockings for varicose veins during my pregnancy. They ease the pain and tiredness, but my legs get so itchy sometimes - especially after I take my stockings off. What can i do to prevent the itchiness and are they too tight?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I was wondering if someone who already has a clot wore compression stockings, would it be safe? Might this dislodge the clot? I only just learned about compression stockings and I'm not sure of these details.
See More
Compression Stockings -7 answers
I had the procedure this morning and wore the compression stockings all day but I can't remember if the Dr. said to wear them when I sleep?
See More
Compression Stockings -11 answers
Do you recommend wearing compression stockings on long flights? I have two flights: one 8 hours with a break of 12 hours and continuing another 12 hours after. I have store bought knee highs and thigh highs. Any disadvantages?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
The knee highs are so much more comfortable. Are they effective enough?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I'm wondering if the pressure from compression stockings can harm the fetus?
See More
Compression Stockings -6 answers
If I have problems with just one leg, can I wear one compression knee high or should I wear both?
See More
Compression Stockings -4 answers
How long after starting to wear these, will I see results?My calve has improved, but the ankle is still huge and the foot quite puffy.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
I presently suffer from a sciatica for the 1st time. Lots of pain in my calf area and particularly in one pinpoint spot in the calf along with hip/groin pain.I wonder if stockings will help my calf pain and is it safe at 20/30 compression?Thank you
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I am wearing compression stockings and was wondering how long should I wear them? Six and a half weeks after my C-section, I am still not mobile much.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
What are the differences? Is it worth the additional cost?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
It seems like tight clothes wouldn't benefit circulation.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
My vascular surgeon did an ultrasound and prescribed endovenous laser ablation. She also suggested that I wear compression stockings after the procedure. However, due to severe psoriasis and eczema on my feet, I cannot wear full-coverage stockings that cover them. They must always be in wet dressings, but cannot be fully covered. Would footless compression stockings be just as effective as full-coverage hose following the procedure?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I would like "save" my legs and buy compression stockings. I dont have any other medical problems that would require me to use the stockings other that I am a nurse and am on my feet a lot. What level of comrpession would you recommend I start with?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR