Have you ever had this experience: after getting off the plane, your legs are sore and swollen, to the point that even your shoes become difficult to put on? Many people think this is a normal phenomenon of sitting for too long, but in fact, it may be a warning sign of poor blood circulation.
Especially during long flights, sitting still for a long time and cramped space can easily cause blood in the lower limbs to block in the legs, causing swelling, numbness, and even increasing the risk of blood clots. At this time, a simple pair of compression socks, especially plus size socks for those with wider calves, may become your "health helper" on the road.
What Do Compression Socks Do
Compression stockings are not ordinary tights. The magic of compression stockings is that they can provide progressive pressure support for the legs, from the ankles to the calves and even the thighs, where the pressure gradually decreases. This design can effectively promote the return of venous blood to the heart and reduce blood retention in the lower limbs.
It is especially suitable for scenes of long-term standing, sitting, or lack of activity. In addition to improving blood circulation, compression stockings can also help relieve leg soreness and swelling, and to a certain extent, prevent the occurrence of varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). For many people who travel daily or need to sit for a long time, it is no longer a "professional product" in the hospital, but a light maintenance to protect the health of their legs.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks When Flying
During the flight, especially for flights lasting more than 4 hours, most passengers remain seated, with limited space for movement, and blood circulation in the legs will slow down significantly. This will not only make you feel sore legs and swollen feet, but in severe cases may even induce "economy class syndrome" (deep vein thrombosis).
Wearing a pair of suitable compression socks is like adding a layer of protection to your legs, helping blood flow faster, reducing pressure on the lower limbs, and allowing you to land easily.
Compression socks are almost "must-have equipment" for flying, especially for pregnant women, the elderly, people at risk of cardiovascular disease, or those recovering from surgery. Even if you are a healthy, ordinary passenger, you can clearly feel that your legs are more relaxed and less swollen after wearing them.
What Kind Of Compression Socks Are Best For Flying
There are many types of compression socks on the market, but not every pair is suitable for flying. As a brand of compression socks focusing on leg health, Plusock has a good reputation among people who fly, travel, and sit for long periods of time.
The following are two products that are particularly suitable for wearing during flights.
1.2XL-4XL Plus Size Color Pattern Compression Socks
This pair of compression socks comes in a variety of colors and styles, making them easy to match with different styles of clothing, whether for leisure or commuting. The 20-30mmHg progressive pressure design can effectively promote blood circulation while being comfortable enough, making it especially suitable for wearing during long flights, helping your legs stay light and not swollen.
2.2XL-7XL Solid Color Plus Size Compression Socks(3 Pairs)
These plus-size compression socks improve circulation and help prevent varicose veins and edema with 20–30mmHg graduated pressure. They relieve leg pain, heaviness, and swelling, and are easy to wear with a snug fit at the ankle and a looser top. Ideal for long sitting or standing, travel, workouts, or pregnancy, they offer all-day comfort and support.
How to Use Compression Socks Properly on a Plane
In order to make the compression stockings really work, the following suggestions must be noted:
1. Wear them before takeoff
It is recommended to put on the compression stockings at home or before boarding the plane at the airport, rather than waiting until you are on the plane.
First, the space of the plane seat is small, and it is not convenient to bend over to operate. Second, it can help the legs enter the "circulation protection" state as early as possible at the beginning of the flight. If you wear them after the security check, you can find a quiet rest area to operate, and avoid being in a hurry.
2. Wearing time should be sufficient
In order to obtain the best soothing and preventive effects, the compression stockings should be worn from before boarding to getting off the plane or even arriving at the accommodation before taking them off.
During the flight, the compression stockings will continue to act on the leg venous system to reduce blood retention. At the same time, if the flight time exceeds 6 hours, you can take off your shoes appropriately during the flight, move your feet and toes, and make the blood circulation smoother.
3. Wearing posture should be correct
When wearing socks, pay attention to the socks not having wrinkles, curling, or slipping. Folding the sock opening will cause local pressure concentration, which will affect blood circulation; if the socks slip, the pressure distribution may fail. Make sure the socks fit the legs flat, especially the ankles and calves, so that the pressure can be evenly distributed and maximized.
4. Remember to "move" during the flight
Even if you wear compression socks, it does not mean that you can stay still. During the flight, it is recommended to do some simple leg exercises every 1-2 hours, such as:
- Drawing circles on your toes
- Standing on tiptoes (if safety permits)
- Flexing your toes and relaxing your ankles
- Standing up and walking in the aisle (if space permits)
Although these movements are simple, they can effectively help muscle contraction and enhance venous return. When used with compression socks, they can significantly improve comfort and preventive effects.
FAQs
1. Do I need to wear compression stockings for short flights?
If the flight time does not exceed 2 hours and you do not have blood circulation problems, you do not need to wear them. But if your legs swell easily, you can still try wearing them.
2. Is the higher the pressure, the better?
No. For daily travel, 15-20 mmHg is enough. Too-high compression stockings need to be used after the doctor's advice.
3. Will wearing compression stockings be uncomfortable?
You may feel a little tight at first, but you will get used to it quickly. The key is to choose the right size and material.
Conclusion
So, you can wear compression socks on the plane, and it is even highly recommended! Whether it is a long-distance trip, an international flight, or a red-eye flight, compression socks can help you reduce discomfort, reduce risks, and make your flight safer and more comfortable. Before boarding the next plane, don't forget to add it to your carry-on baggage list and give your legs some intimate care!
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Can You Sleep in Compression Socks?