By Patricia Nolan, PT, MPT, CLT-LANA, RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center
Summer travel season is here. Whether you are flying off to an exotic location or hopping in a car or bus for an epic road trip, you should keep your leg health in your mind.
When faced with long periods of sitting and limited activity, your legs can be at risk of developing a blood clot. One of the most common types is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which typically forms in veins of the leg.
Signs of a DVT include:
- Swelling of your leg or arm
- Pain or tenderness that you can't explain
- Skin that is warm to the touch
- Redness or discoloration of the skin
* DVT is very serious, and if one is suspected, you should seek medical attention immediately
There are however, a few things that you can do to keep your legs healthy during travel. Simple exercises can help keep blood flowing in your legs. In addition, light compression socks can help support the veins in your legs and keep swelling down.
Tips for healthy legs:
- Stand up and walk around every 2-3 hours
- Exercise while sitting:
- Hip raises – alternate lifting your knees toward your chest
- Knee kicks – alternate straightening and bending your knees
- Heel raises – lift and lower your heels while keeping toes on the floor
- Toe raises – lift and lower your toes while keeping your heels on the floor
- Wear light compression socks (8-15 mmHg) that are comfortable and do not dig into your legs creating tight areas.
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Patricia Nolan, PT, MPT, CLT-LANA, is a Physical Therapist at RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. Patricia has 25 years of clinical experience and has been on staff at the ACC physical therapy department since 2006. Her areas of specialty are lymphedema, breast cancer rehabilitation and pelvic floor dysfunction. She always strives to provide compassionate and understanding care for her patients.
The experienced and compassionate staff at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Rehabilitation centers, with locations in West Orange and Livingston, offers adults and children the specialized care they need to resume an active life after surgery, injury or illness. Staff is committed to providing patients with the most advanced services in a safe, caring and soothing environment. For high-risk patients who are unable to visit in person, telehealth is an option. Patients do not need a prescription for physical therapy services. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 973-322-7500.