Keep Feet Safe and Healthy While Traveling

Of course, in these days of COVID, we’re all doing our best to minimize air travel and stay as close to home as possible? But what if your job or a family requirement means you have to travel by plane? It’s critical to protect yourself from coronavirus, but it’s also important to take active steps to keep feet and ankles safe and healthy while you’re in the airport and on the plane. Here are some tips from Middlesex County podiatrist Dr. Jason Grossman:

COVID-19 Prevention while traveling

Be smart about COVID-19 protection while you’re around other people. Wash your hands often. Avoid high-contact surfaces like doorknobs if you can. Sanitize hands after touching such items if you can’t. Minimize your contact with others by checking your own bags and waiting at a nearby gate where there are fewer travelers, but you can still hear announcements. Wear your mask at all times.

Foot and Ankle Health

Air travel can be rough on feet and ankles. No sandals at the airport, please! It’s easy to pick up the virus that causes plantar warts or another infection when you’re barefoot at security. Always wear comfortable shoes. Sneakers or other footwear with laces will do a better job of snugly hugging your feet – and preventing swelling – than slip-on shoes will. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water when you’re in the air. Finally, be sure to get up and walk around periodically. The movement will keep you comfortable and will also help prevent dangerous Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), blood clots in the legs that can lead to injury or even death.

If you are worried about the effects of travel on your feet and legs, or if you have another concern about their health and wellness, a visit to a board-certified podiatrist like Jason Grossman, DPM is the first step on the road to wellness. Call the friendly Advanced Feet and Ankle Care staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment in our safe, modern Old Bridge and Sayreville offices today.