Flying home from spending Christmas with the relatives? Taking an airplane to a friend’s for New Year’s Eve? Jetting away to somewhere warm? This time of year is popular for travel, and although flying is convenient in many ways, it can cause discomfort in our feet and ankles. Sitting upright for hours can cause blood to pool in our feet, leading to swelling and, more seriously, blood clots. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep your blood circulating on your flight, so let’s take a look at 5 of the most common:

1. Drink water—Consume plenty of water the day before and the day of your flight, and continue to hydrate while you are on the plane. This will thin your blood, and also stimulate you to get up and walk to the lavatory!
2. Walk around—As mentioned above, getting up out of your seat several times during your flight is a great way to improve circulation. While you’re up, shake out your legs and do some simple foot stretches.
3. Don’t cross your legs—Your circulation is already poor from sitting, so don’t make it any worse!
4. Choose your footwear carefully—Compression stockings help prevent against swelling and blood clotting. In addition, make sure your shoes or slippers have enough room to accommodate a little extra swelling.
5. Go for overhead storage—If you keep your carryon luggage underneath the seat in front of you, you won’t have enough room to stretch out and you might force your legs into positions that cut off circulation even further.

Although it might be tempting to sleep the flight away, consider the impact that might have on your feet and ankles. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico of Syracuse Podiatry wants to make sure that you have a happy and healthy holiday season. If you are preparing for an upcoming trip, or simply want to learn more about frostbite, heel pain, athlete’s foot, or more please do not hesitate to contact us or call our Fayetteville office at (315) 446-3668!