08/06/2026
✈️ Do your shoes feel tighter after a flight? You're not imagining it.
Foot and ankle swelling is common during air travel, especially on flights lasting more than a few hours. Sitting for extended periods slows circulation, allowing fluid to collect in your feet and ankles.
Reduce swelling with these travel tips:
🧦 Wear compression socks on longer flights.
💧 Stay hydrated—dehydration can actually contribute to swelling.
🚶 Get up and walk the aisle every hour or two when it's safe to do so.
🦶 While seated, perform simple ankle pumps and circles to keep blood flowing.
👟 Travel in comfortable, supportive shoes that have room for your feet to expand slightly.
⬆️ Once you arrive, elevate your feet for a short time if they're swollen.
Most travel-related swelling improves within a day. However, swelling in one leg only, severe pain, redness, warmth, or swelling that doesn't improve should be evaluated promptly, as these symptoms can indicate a more serious medical condition.
🌴 Don't let sore, swollen feet slow down your vacation.
📍 Gulf South Foot & Ankle
📞 504-454-3004
🌐 www.gulfsouthfootandankle.com