Expert Explains The Reason Why Passengers Are Advised Not To Cross Their Feet On The Plane

JAKARTA - Traveling by plane often feels uncomfortable. Narrow seats, limited space and hourly sitting make it difficult for many passengers to find a really good sitting position.

Not infrequently, people choose to cross their legs as an instant method to relax more. However, according to health experts, this habit can actually be dangerous.

"Getting off your feet while sitting on the plane increases the risk of joint pain and deep narrow thrombosis (DVT)," explained physiotherapist total Tomlinson, quoted from the South African page.

Deep vet thrombosis or DVT is a blood clot that usually forms when a person sits for too long without moving much. The condition on the plane is that the seats are narrow and limited space has increased the risk. Crossing the legs actually worsens blood circulation.

In addition, the wrong posture can make your back, hips, and knees feel stiff or painful after a long flight.

To reduce the risk, Tomlinson gave some tips:

1. Keep Your Feet slightly Lifted

If the chair has footwear, use it to promote blood circulation.

2. Sitting With Relaxation And A Firm Position

Position your back to stick to your chairs and shoulders to remain relaxed so as not to add to the pressure on the body.

3. Move Every 1.2 Hours

During long-distance flights, try walking in the cabin hallway so that the muscles are not stiff and the joints are not swollen.

In addition, he also suggested some light exercises that can be done from chairs, such as neck stretching, shoulder turning, or pulling the knee towards the chest to relax muscles.

The key is to keep the body active even with small movements. That's enough to help circulate and reduce aches," added Tomlinson.