Why compression stockings help prevent thrombosis during flying

Herzog Medical
October 27, 2025

Anyone who's ever taken a long flight knows the feeling: stiff legs, swollen feet, and a heavy feeling after sitting still for hours. What seems harmless can lead to a serious complication for some travelers: (deep vein) thrombosis , a blood clot that forms in the veins of the lower leg.

According to the Thrombosis Foundation, approximately one in four people worldwide die from thrombosis. While these figures often concern medical situations, long air travel can temporarily increase the risk.

In this article we explain why thrombosis occurs during flying, how compression stockings can help, and which stocking is best suited to your situation.

What happens in your legs during a long flight?

When flying, you often sit for hours at a time with bent knees and little room to move. This prolonged sitting without movement increases your risk of thrombosis. Sitting still for extended periods slows blood flow in the veins of your lower legs. The natural calf muscle pump—which normally pushes blood upward with every step—is virtually at a standstill.

Without this pumping action, the blood remains in the legs longer, which means:

➤ fluid builds up (your feet and ankles swell);
➤ the pressure in the veins increases;
➤ the risk of blood clots (thrombosis) increases.

In some people, such a clot can even break loose and travel to the lungs or brain. That's why preventing circulation problems during long flights is so important.

How compression stockings support blood circulation

Compression stockingswhen traveling by airApply gradually decreasing pressure to drain excess fluid from your leg. The compression pressure of 23 to 32 mmHg is strongest at the ankle and decreases towards the knee, thus increasing the pressure upward. The Thrombosis Foundation recommendsElastic compression stockings (TEK) are also recommended as an effective treatment methodfor thrombosis.

That pressuresupports venous return, or the natural movement by which blood returns from the legs to the heart.

During long flights, this controlled compression ensures that:

➤ the blood continues to circulate more actively;
➤ moisture accumulation is limited;
➤ the risk of clots and thrombosis decreases significantly.

In addition, your legs feel lighter and more energetic after the flight, because waste products and moisture are removed more effectively.

When is extra compression recommended while flying?

Flying thrombosis is more common in people who:

➤ traveling for more than 4 hours at a time;
➤ move little during the flight;
➤ have recently had an injury, operation or cast;
➤ being pregnant;
➤ have a family history or have previously suffered from thrombosis.

In all these cases, it's wise to wear compression socks during the flight. This ensures that your blood circulation remains active, especially if you're immobile for a long time.

Products in this blog

Support Compression Sock Blue

€44,95

Support Compression Sock Blue

€44,95

PRO Compression Socks Black

€56,95

PRO Compression Socks Black

€56,95

The difference between Support and PRO Compression Socks when traveling

Not every compression stocking offers the same pressure or medical benefits. Herzog Medical has developed two types of compression stockings, each with a specific function in preventing or restoring thrombosis.

The PRO Compression Stocking complies with the medical guideline for Therapeutic Elastic Stockings (TEK), which means that it:

➤ is fitted for the correct pressure distribution;
➤ is MDR-certified as a medical device;
➤ is suitable for recovery after thrombosis.

For those who fly regularly but don't have a medical indication, the Support Compression Stocking offers the necessary support to prevent discomfort and risks. Need help choosing?View the comparison page

Practical tips for safe and healthier flying

Good preparation can make the difference between stiff, tired legs and a relaxing journey. A few simple habits will keep your circulation active and reduce the risk of thrombosis during long flights:

Pull yourselfwear compression stockings before departure, preferably already at the airport.
Drink enough waterand limit caffeine or alcohol to prevent dehydration.
Exercise regularlyyour feet or ankles: make small circles or move your toes up and down.
Get up every hourif possible, to activate the calf muscle pump.
Wear the socks after the flight as wella few more hours to support blood circulation.

Whether you're on a short trip or a long intercontinental flight, Herzog Medical compression stockings help keep your legs fit and reduce the risk of thrombosis.

Shop the entire collection:compression stockings for the plane