Avoiding Potential Dangers During Long Flights

During the holiday season, many of us travel to see family members. Most of us are accustomed to the aches and pains that occur due to being cramped in a small seat in an airplane. But more serious risks other then stiffness and cramping can occur from long flights. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), are blood clots that form from sitting long periods of time. If the clots do not dissolve, they may break loose days are even weeks later, travel to the heart or lungs, and possibly cause death. Although rare, (affects approximately 100 air passengers per year), precautions should be made to prevent formation of clots.

It is recommended for travelers to walk up and down the aisle of the plane every hour. Pumping the ankles up and down for a minimum of 10 times per hour should be performed. The above activities will help maintain circulation in the legs. Compressions stockings may also be used if a person is prone to or has a history of blood clots.

Source: American Physical Therapy Association