GREENBELT, Md. — Long flights, road trips and train rides can increase the risk of poor circulation and blood clots, especially when travelers stay seated for hours at a time. Vein specialists say the key is not intense exercise. It is knowing exactly which small movements to make during a trip and when to make them.
“Many travelers assume circulation problems only happen on extremely long international flights, but even a few hours of limited movement can affect blood flow. The good news is that small movements done consistently throughout a trip can help keep circulation moving and reduce the risk of serious vein complications.”
Sanjiv Lakhanpal, MD, FACS
Founder, President and CEO of Center for Vein Restoration
Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), the largest physician-led provider of treatment for symptomatic venous insufficiency in the United States, released this simple, step-by-step guide to healthy circulation to help travelers keep blood moving during long periods of confinement.
Before the trip:
• Wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes
• Wear compression socks during trips longer than four hours
• Keep water easily accessible to stay hydrated throughout the trip
Once seated:
• Avoid crossing your legs if you have existing vein issues or circulatory problems
• Leave enough room under the seat to stretch and move feet freely
• Start ankle circles and foot pumps within the first 30 minutes of travel
Every 30 minutes:
• Point toes forward, then flex feet back toward the body 10 times
• Lift heels off the floor to activate calf muscles
• Tighten calf muscles for several seconds, then release
Every 45 to 60 minutes:
• Stand up and walk whenever possible
• Walk the airplane aisle, stop at a rest area or move around during station stops
• Stretch legs before sitting back down
During the trip:
• Drink water consistently
• Avoid sitting in cramped sleeping positions for long periods
• Watch for swelling, warmth, redness or pain in one leg
Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is the nation’s largest physician-led vein center with more than 130 clinics, 80 board-certified physicians and over 800 employees nationwide. CVR conducts more than 700,000 patient interactions each year and advances the diagnosis and treatment of venous and lymphatic disorders through innovation, education and compassionate patient-centered care. To learn more about CVR and its mission, visit centerforvein.com or call 1-800-FIX-LEGS.
###
About Vein Disease
Spider Veins
Varicose Veins
Vein Disease Treatments
Treating Spider Veins
Treating Varicose Veins
About Us
Patient Resources
Physician Resources