Does flying make injuries worse?


Does flying make injuries worse? Anyone with injuries where air has been trapped, because of the basic laws of physics and, more specifically, Boyle's Law, Calavan said, is at a higher risk of pain and injury inflight than others. “The biggest issue are those conditions that occur that have the possibility of trapped air.


Should I fly with swollen feet and ankles?

Leg and foot swelling during air travel is common and typically harmless. The most likely culprit is inactivity during a flight. Sitting with your feet on the floor for a long period causes blood to pool in your leg veins. The position of your legs when you are seated also increases pressure in your leg veins.


How do you reduce inflammation when flying?

10 Ways to Prevent Swollen Feet During Travel
  1. Drink Water Throughout Your Travels. ...
  2. Watch Your Diet and Avoid Salty Foods. ...
  3. Reach for a Pair of Compression Socks. ...
  4. Stretch Your Legs on Long Flights. ...
  5. Give Your Feet a Seated Workout. ...
  6. Stow Bags Overhead to Maximize Legroom. ...
  7. Don't Cross Your Legs.


Can you fly after knee injury?

It is typically recommended that you wait 6 weeks after any major lower limb surgery before flying. Patients may be able to fly on short-haul or domestic flights sooner, usually within 3 to 4 weeks, but they should always consult their surgeon to ensure there is no increased risk of blood clots.


Should I travel with a broken ankle?

Luckily, as long as you are up for the challenge of traveling with limited mobility, Dr. Erickson said, “It is safe to travel by car or plane with a broken bone as long as the fracture is appropriately immobilized.


Does pain get worse on a plane?

The cramped conditions and long periods of being less active on a flight can cause pain, stiffness or swelling of your legs. Being less active can lead to slow blood flow in your veins which increases your risk of developing a blood clot, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).


How common is DVT after flying?

Factors that contribute to the increased risk of travel-related DVT include obesity, extremes of height, use of oral contraceptives and pre-existing blood clotting abnormalities. The absolute risk of DVT in healthy passengers per long-haul flight (more than 4 hours) was found to be about 1 in 6000.


Can you fly after surgery for broken ankle?

In most cases, doctors who perform foot and ankle surgeries recommend that you avoid travel for at least 4 weeks, while some advise waiting 3 months or longer depending on your case. Your recovery time frame should always be discussed with your doctor directly. How does flying increase risk of DVTs?


How do you travel with a leg injury?

Before traveling while injured, always get clearance from your doctor.
  1. Expect everything to take more time than you think. ...
  2. Get the right gear, aka walking assistants. ...
  3. Ask for help. ...
  4. Pack differently. ...
  5. Remember to loosen or take off any support devices when you're on the plane. ...
  6. Compression socks.


Is it OK to fly with leg pain?

“If you experience leg pain or cramps—especially in your calves—during flight, don't ignore that ache. The most dangerous type of ache in the body during a flight can be a blood clot, warns Summit internist Dr.


What injuries should you not fly with?

recent heart attack. recent stroke. recent operation or injury where trapped air or gas may be present in the body (e.g. stomach ,bowel, eyes, face, brain) severe long term diseases that affect your breathing.


Can swelling get worse on a plane?

Leg and foot swelling during air travel is common and typically harmless. The most likely culprit is inactivity during a flight. Sitting with your feet on the floor for a long period causes blood to pool in your leg veins. The position of your legs when you are seated also increases pressure in your leg veins.


What blood pressure is too high for flying?

If your blood pressure is higher than 120 over 80, seek medical advice before you travel.