It's that time of the year when people try to escape the cold of winter and head off to somewhere warmer. Whether you are heading up north to sunny Queensland or a bit farther to the European summer, it goes without saying you have a lot of sitting ahead of you ... and unless you have managed to get an upgrade or an emergency aisle seat, the majority of that will be in cramped seating.
The Sport Injury Clinic in Frankston warns that prolonged sitting has a negative effect on the body, primarily decreased veinous return. This is due to the 'kinks' in your veins from having your hips and knees bent as well as the general decrease in lower limb muscle activity. These factors combine to cause swelling in your feet and calves as well as increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
There are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of DVT, including regular walks up the aisle and 'foot pump' exercises in your seat, but the best thing you can do is spend as much time as you can at the airport just walking about. Waiting in layover for connecting flights is time that should be spent on the move. Minimise sitting time where you can.
The Sport Injury Clinic has a full list of tips for more comfortable travelling, so go to tsic.com.au/index.php/social-hub/tsic-blog to find out more.
THE SPORTS INJURY CLINIC
A: 365 Nepean Highway, Frankston
T: 9783 9990