Crossing Legs on Flights Poses DVT Risk, Expert Warns

CAPE TOWN

Crossing your legs during flights can cause joint pain and dangerous blood clots, warns a physiotherapist who urged travellers to break this common habit.

Physiotherapist Bethany Tomlinson told the Daily Mail this position increases risks of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – blood clots that form during long periods of sitting. (Daily Mail)

Plane travel already heightens DVT vulnerability through cramped seating and inactivity, with crossed legs further restricting blood circulation, Tomlinson explained.

She recommends these safer alternatives for comfort and health:

• Elevate legs using seat footrests where available.
• Relax shoulders while sitting back to improve posture.
• Move every 1-2 hours during long flights to reduce swelling.

The physiotherapist also suggested in-seat exercises like neck stretches, shoulder rolls and knee hugs to maintain mobility during flights.