Avoiding Leg Cramps When Traveling

Sitting for hours in the passenger seats of a plane, or virtually any transport vehicle, causes legs to cramp and congestion of the blood in the veins, slowing down the flow so that a clot (thrombus) may form. Such thrombosis generally is o­nly noticed when the destination has been reached, so thrombosis is not often associated with the flight, or the car journey, itself. A study showed that approximately o­ne out of every ten air passengers develops the initial stages of thrombosis during a long-distance flight.

Indication is given in the gradually increased swelling that appears o­n the ankles during a trip. Signs of thrombosis in the leg vein are: warm skin in the area of the calf of the leg, the swelling of the region affected, a blue coloration of the skin and pain.

Besides usual precautions, people at high risk should wear compression stockings. Pregnant mothers, or people with a disposition towards thrombosis, should consult their doctor as precautionary measure before departure.

We all can reduce the risk for thrombosis. Make an effort to move around as much as possible and consume fluidsWhen flying, be sparing with alcohol and when driving, avoid it! Drinking dilutes the blood. Waist belts should be loosened. When seated, wiggle your feet up and down and rhythmically tense up your leg muscles to activate the muscle pump. Get up and walk a bit every two hours.

With a bit of pre planning, you can arrive at your destination with comfort and ready to take in all you are there for.