Whenever it is hot out, especially if there is humidity, your feet can easily swell. This can make walking uncomfortable, particularly in tighter shoes. Swelling is exacerbated when you travel, from spending time in hot weather to walking around sightseeing for a long period of time. One aspect of traveling that can really cause your feet to swell is the air travel. The combination of low cabin pressure, dry air, and being in the same seat for hours all contribute to swollen feet.
Prevention is Key
Fortunately, there are plenty of tips you can follow to prevent swollen feet when you are on an airplane. This will make for a much more comfortable trip, and you will be ready for the start of your trip once the plane lands!
Food and Drink: On the day of your trip, and the day before, drink plenty of water and limit your salt intake. Staying hydrated will help keep the swelling down, and avoiding salty foods is a must. Salt causes you to retain fluid, which can lead to even more swelling.
Move Around: When a flight is more than two hours, your body is going to get antsy. Try to move around, from walking to the bathroom to simply exercising your feet. Work the muscles in your feet by making circle motions with them, pointing your toes up and down, etc. so that your feet are at least moving. Another benefits of staying extra-hydrated is that you’ll need to get up to go to the bathroom more often!
On the Plane: Simple steps, such as asking for an aisle seat and placing your bags in the overhead compartment rather than near your feet can help. When you have an aisle seat, it will be easier for you to get up and move around, plus you’ll have more room. Additionally, by placing your bags in the overhead compartment, your feet won’t be battling for more space. Wearing proper footwear and not crossing your legs will also be important to avoid swollen feet.
Overall, there are plenty of ways to ensure that your feet stay happy and healthy when you are on an airplane. However, when you get off the plane, try to stay on your feet for at least 15-20 minutes to really get your blood flowing! If you are interested in more tips, contact Alpine Foot Specialists!
Courtesy of: Everyday Health