Compression Travel Sock – Increased Risk Of Deep Vein Thrombosis

As you will be aware, considerable press attention has focused on the increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long-haul air travel and the preventative measures that can be taken by travellers. Consequently, more and more people are now being encouraged to wear compression travel socks during long flights to help prevent DVT. Clearly this is a wise step, particularly in at-risk patients (people over 50 years old, those having had recent surgery, or those with serious illness), as evidence suggests that wearing fitted travel socks helps to significantly reduce the risk of DVT.

Choosing the right travel sock, however, is important. There are now many travel socks marketed in the UK. Travellers should be aware, however, that some of the socks currently being sold have not been proven to be effective in reducing DVT in airline passengers.

The amount of pressure applied by the sock to the leg and where this pressure is applied is critical. Travel socks can only reduce the risk of DVT if sufficient pressure is applied around the ankle to increase blood flow and prevent the stretching of the deep veins that leads to blood pooling and clot formation associated with DVT. This means maintaining a pressure around the ankle of approximately 20 mm Hg. To ensure that the sock applies the appropriate pressure at the right place it must be properly fitted, and requires accurate ankle measurement.

Many travel socks on sale may not apply sufficient pressure to the ankle to prevent DVT. Furthermore, many are poorly fitted as they rely on measuring foot size or simply a 'one size fits all' approach. Many of these products are sold outside the pharmacies. As a result travellers often do not have easy access to the appropriate advice regarding fitting, the effect of pre-existing conditions such as varicose veins, product care, as well as the more general measures that can be taken to prevent DVT in the air.

Mediven Travel is the only travel sock available that has been clinically proven to be effective in reducing the risk of DVT during long distance air travel. In a recent study, published in the medical journal The Lancet (2001;Vol 357 Issue 9267 pages 1485-89) it was found that no patients wearing Mediven Travel Socks developed DVT, compared to one in ten of those not wearing the elasticated compression sock. Mediven Travel is a fitted travel sock that exerts a pressure of 20 mm Hg at the ankle. It is available through pharmacies or direct from the manufacturer Medi UK, and comes in a number of ankle sizes to ensure an accurate fit.

Also see; socks for diabetics.

About The Author:

Rony Swede is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.socks-n-socks.com. Having indulged in countless sporting activites over the years, Rony is a self-appointed expert on socks and enjoys sharing his insights with consumers.

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