Do I need to put compression stockings on before I get on the plane, or is it OK to put them on before we take off?

Answers from doctors (5)


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Apr 04, 2019

Compression hose function by compressing the calf muscles to increase the venous return and preventing stagnation of blood in the legs. Sitting increases stagnation. You should have the stockings on before you start sitting for any prolonged period.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Compression hose function by compressing the calf muscles to increase the venous return and preventing stagnation of blood in the legs. Sitting increases stagnation. You should have the stockings on before you start sitting for any prolonged period.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Nov 01, 2016

Either way is probably OK; however, I don't know what airline you are flying. Most airplanes are quite crowded, making donning a stocking problematic when done mid-flight.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Either way is probably OK; however, I don't know what airline you are flying. Most airplanes are quite crowded, making donning a stocking problematic when done mid-flight.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Published on Oct 31, 2016

Compression stockings help provide relief from leg swelling and may have anti-embolism functionality.

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Answered by Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Compression stockings help provide relief from leg swelling and may have anti-embolism functionality.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Oct 28, 2016

You can put them on either way. Make sure you drink lots of fluids and get up and walk or at least do the exercises noted in the flight magazine. If you are high risk for DVT maybe a Aspirin 81 mg also.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

You can put them on either way. Make sure you drink lots of fluids and get up and walk or at least do the exercises noted in the flight magazine. If you are high risk for DVT maybe a Aspirin 81 mg also.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Published on Oct 28, 2016

It is probably easier to put compression hose on before you get on a plane. They are often not that easy to get on. Planes are cramped and crowded. As well, you may think that you will put them on once in the air. However, often times you spend a long time sitting at the gate or on the tarmac. I would consider putting them on in the airport prior to boarding the plane or at home before you leave for the airport. This is probably most beneficial.

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Answered by Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

It is probably easier to put compression hose on before you get on a plane. They are often not that easy to get on. Planes are cramped and crowded. As well, you may think that you will put them on once in the air. However, often times you spend a long time sitting at the gate or on the tarmac. I would consider putting them on in the airport prior to boarding the plane or at home before you leave for the airport. This is probably most beneficial.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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