Keep Those Feet Happy and Healthy While Traveling
May 23, 2024By: Kim Shopper
Categories: Your Wellness
Traveling can mean sitting for long periods with minimal movement that can reduce circulation in your legs and feet. When your muscles are inactive, blood can accumulate in your lower extremities and cause swelling. In severe cases, there may be an increased risk of complications, such as blood clots or infection, that could pose serious health risks.
With some advanced planning and thought, keep your feet and ankles in tip-top shape so you can enjoy your vacation destination.
- Drink plenty of water before and during your trip to avoid dehydration, which can worsen swelling in the feet.
- Walk around the airplane each hour (if possible) or stop for rest breaks if traveling by car. Limited legroom can lead to uncomfortable seating positions that may impede blood flow and lead to swelling. Once you arrive at your destination, be sure to walk and stretch and flex your ankles.
- Elevate your feet to reduce swelling. Use the footrest on a plane or prop your feet on your carry-on bag.
- Wear compression socks to help improve circulation and reduce swelling, especially during long flights or car trips.
- Avoid tight clothing, especially around your waist, ankles and feet. Tight clothing can restrict blood flow and contribute to swelling.
- Limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine, which contributes to dehydration and swelling.
- Exercise your ankles. Flex and point your toes and do ankle circles to keep the blood flowing.
- Apply cold packs to your feet and ankles to help reduce swelling.
- Consult your doctor before you travel if you have a medical condition that puts you at risk for swelling.
Don’t let swelling negatively impact your travel experience by causing discomfort and decreasing your mobility. Keep these tips as part of your travel planning to help make your journey and final destination more enjoyable.
