Flying Can Be Dangerous to Foot Health

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Summer’s here, and many people have vacation plans over the next couple of months. Some are taking road trips, but many others will be enjoying air travel this summer. If you’re one of them, lucky you! A trip to a faraway place is thrilling. Unfortunately, many vacations have been ruined by unexpected foot pain related to flying. What can you do to minimize your risk of illness or injury? Here are some suggestions from James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS:

  • Schedule a visit with your foot doctor before you go away. The doctor will examine your feet, ankles, and lower legs for existing and potential problems and provide effective treatment for any issues. This is especially important if you have diabetes or another health condition that causes podiatric symptoms.

  • Sandals are one summer pleasure. However, wearing them at the airport can leave you vulnerable to toenail fungus, plantar warts, and other infections. Never walk barefoot through security or other places where many other people do. If you choose to travel in sandals, pack a pair of socks in your carryon and wear them as you go through screening. Even better, wear socks and closed shoes on travel days.

  • Prevent foot swelling. Wear a pair of shoes that you can lace snugly to your feet. Keep them on during your flight. Stay hydrated while you travel. Counter-intuitively, the more water you drink, the less likely you are to experience edema (swelling).

  • Get up and walk around periodically during your flight to keep blood flowing to your lower extremities. This is especially important for men and women with Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) or other condition that impacts circulation. These people are at increased risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis, a dangerous and potentially deadly blood clot in the legs.

Are you planning a summer getaway? Make sure you’re healthy before you set out. Schedule an appointment with Dr. James M. McKee in our comfortable office on Solomons Island Road. Call the friendly Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to get started today.

Blog, common foot conditions, Foot DoctorPodiatry Group of Annapolisfoot health, toenail fungus, diabetics