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?
You are absolutely correct to wear compression stockings while traveling. Over-the-counter compression may work fine for you, but the recommend medical-grade compression is 20-30 mmHg. Check with a medical supply store in your area or online. Also, check with your primary care physician for their recommendations.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, compression stockings are recommended for long flights and may prevent DVT/blood clots. If the stocking doesn't fit properly or gets bunched up, they can create a tourniquet and cause swelling.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, Yes, Yes, I encourage our patients to wear stockings on flights.
Michael D. Ingegno, MD
Published on Jul 11, 2012
No problems at all. Probably good for most passengers. You get less swelling
of the feet and ankles and faster circulation of blood in the legs. Thigh
high graduated compression (10-15mmHG or 15-20 mmHg) stockings would be
preferable
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Wear the hose.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes I do.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You will definitively benefit by using compresion stockings during such long trips.Both sizes would be beneficial. The knee highs will be definitively more comfortable.
Remember to also do some stretching exercises and exercise your legs on the seat by contracting and relaxing the calf muscles (alternating legs) at least 10 repetitions every couple of hours.
Good luck and... enjoy the flight.
Dr. Farhy
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Absolutely the best thing you could do is to wear compression for travel.
Travel compression should be 15-20 mmHg and best to be fitted after you are measured.
Anyone who travels long distances whether by car or plane should wear them.
Knees hi hose are appropriate for most people. If you have any saphenous or deep vein issues, we recommend thigh length.
Along with compression, exercises to contract and stretch the calf and thigh muscles, getting up and walking often, drinking plenty of non-alcoholic/non-caffeinated fluids.
The only disadvantage I can think of is if the hose are not fitted to you and have a tight constricting band at the top. You are best getting these from a medical professional or a medical supply store.
Norman N. Bein MD FACS RVT
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Compression stockings are a good idea if traveling for more than a 3 hour flight. Store bought stockings are adequate as long as they are at least 12-18 mmHg compression grade. Knee high should be adequate to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. As per usual, you should discuss this with your physician prior to traveling.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is fine to wear compression stockings on the plane, and, in fact, I encourage it. Knee highs are adequate.
Published on Jul 11, 2012