Summer travel is upon us! It never ceases to amaze me when I
am at the airport how people think nothing of taking off their shoes and
sandals then walk through security bare foot. Simply makes me cringe. I get it; there are travelers who choose to wear shoes
without socks. However, you might want to think twice the next time you travel.
You would not walk barefoot in a locker room or other public areas…so why is
security ok? I don’t think the body scanner or wands used by T.S.A. agents are
warding off bacteria. When is the last time you have seen a security area
scrubbed down? A thin pair of socks in your carry on bag is a
good way to ward off any creepy crawlies that are lurking on the ground. This
way, you can proceed through the area with some protection on your feet.
How about the airplane carpeting….spotless right? Considering the quick turn around aircrafts go through, we are lucky to have the floor cleaned of left over trash let alone vacuumed. Use the same socks to cover your feet as you used walking through security or heck, jazz it up and bring fun socks to lighten the mood of the travel time if removing your shoes is a must for you.
Many of our patients travel for extended periods of time. Compression socks, particularly for longer flights more than two hours can help reduce swelling and restless legs. When you wear compression socks, you are increasing circulation which can reduce lower body fatigue, achiness and soreness. If however, you are lying down for long period of time, the compression socks should be removed. The socks are created in a variety of strengths. Typically, compressions levels of 10-20mmg are normally worn for travel however, check in with your Podiatrist to make sure you purchase the right compression level for you.
Happy Travels!
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