The discussion about the incidences of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in air travel passengers and what can be done to best protect against this risk has been more or less a continuous debate for many years.

One of these deliberations consists of a review titled “Compression Stockings for Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis in Airline Passengers”.

This review was prepared and maintained by The Cochrane Collaboration and published in The Cochrane Library 2010, Issue 1

The review examines the benefits of wearing compression stockings (or flight socks) as protection against the formation of blood clots during long distance flights lasting more than 4 hours.

Studies have confirmed that graduated compression that is applied to the legs by wearing compression socks or stockings in combination with leg movement helps to boost venous blood circulation back to the heart and lungs.

This can significantly reduce the risk of blood clots in the deep veins also known as deep vein thrombosis.  In addition, passengers who wear compression stockings also experience far less leg discomfort and swelling (edema) of the legs than people who do not wear compression hosiery.

For additional information about “Economy Class Syndrome” and the risks of DVT during travel we also recommend reading some of our other articles by following the links below

The Effects of “Economy Class Syndrome” or “Coach Class Syndrome” can be Lethal – How can Compression Stockings Help?

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