I am about to take off again. I quite like flying. I usually fly Finnair to Europe because the have a good safety record, the food is good, the staff friendly and the flight time from Hong Kong to Helsinki is a few hours shorter that other destinations in Europe and on a long haul flight this makes a big difference. I also love Helsinki, so a stop there is a bonus.
Which brings me to flight socks. A few years ago DVT (deep vein thrombosis) was THE topic of conversation, but it went the way of RSI (repetitive strain injury). Who gets that any more?
DVT is still a problem of course, and if you fly long distances you really should know how to help prevent it.
One of the easiest things to do to help prevent DVT is to wear compression socks, or flight socks. They work because they improve the circulation and reduce the swelling of the ankles. They help channel the blood from surface veins into deeper veins. The constricting effect of the socks stimulates circulation in the legs to help counteract the effect of sitting for long periods of time in cramped conditions.
It is also suggested that you walk around when possible or at least do some stretching exercises in your seat. Drinking plenty of water helps too, then you get some exercise when you have to get up to go to the toilet.
I amazed to see how few people wear these socks. I see women getting on planes in tight strappy sandals and then watch them get off with those straps digging into their poor puffy feet.
Flight socks can be bought at department or travel stores, pharmacies and at some airports. They will make you feel so much better after a long flight and it might just prevent a blood clot and save your life. I won’t get on a plane without them.
There are no photos, they just look like long socks.
Here are some photos of what I will be leaving behind on my Brisbane balcony.
This is the second pineapple to appear on my balcony. I hate to leave it but Bagni di Lucca in deep snow is calling.