Long flights, as most people know, can be extremely unpleasant. It’s understandable that flying inspires fear in many people due to the close quarters, lack of humidity, and prolonged periods of inactivity that passengers must endure. Leg swelling and pain from sitting for long periods are common complaints among travelers. The good news is that you can alleviate these symptoms by using a leg pillow. Here, we’ll discuss the many benefits of using it after a long flight.
What is an Leg Pillow?
First, let’s define what a leg cushion is before discussing its benefits after a flight. To alleviate pressure on the lower back, hips, and legs, it is shaped to prop up your legs and hold them in a relaxed, stable position. The pillow’s elevated position does double duty, relieving pressure and increasing blood flow by keeping the user’s legs in an ergonomically optimal position. Memory foam or other soft materials are commonly used because they mold to the shape of your legs. You can read about additional features at https://nygex.ie/p/orthopedic-knee-pillow-for-side-sleepers/.
How a Knee Cushion for Side Sleepers Can Help After a Flight
Reduce Hip Ache
Sitting for long periods of time can put a strain on your hips, leading to pain and discomfort. If you suffer from hip pain, using a pillow to prop yourself up can help alleviate the ache.
Improve Circulation
Long periods of sitting on a flight can cause blood to pool in your legs, resulting in swelling and possibly even blood clots. A cushion helps with circulation by propping your legs up and relieving pressure on your veins.
Alleviate Back Pain
Backache is an additional side effect of sitting in a small airplane seat for long periods of time. Maintaining a neutral hip position alleviates strain on your lower back and improves your quality of life. Using a knee pillow helps you sleep better by reducing pressure on your back and facilitating proper spinal alignment, both of which can help ease the pain.
Having a lower chance of developing a DVT
Clots of blood can form in the deep veins of the legs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The increased risk of blood clots from prolonged sitting in a confined space like an airplane seat can lead many to associate this condition with long flights. To prevent deep vein thrombosis and other circulation issues, prop your legs up on a cushion.
Choosing the Best One for You
The next step is to figure out which pillow is best for you. We recommend thinking about the following:
Size and form: It’s important to select a cushion that fits snugly between your legs and offers sufficient support, and these pillows come in a wide range of sizes and shapes;
Stuff: Most knee pillows are constructed from foam or another soft but firm material. Pick out a fabric that’s both supportive and firm enough for your preferences.
Mobility: You should select a lightweight and compact cushion if you intend to use it after flights.
Proper Maintenance
It is essential to maintain the pillow so that it lasts for many more flights. You can get more use out of your cushion by following these basic care instructions:
- Regular washing is recommended because your pillow can become soiled with perspiration and oil from your skin if not washed regularly;
- It should be kept in a cool, dry place when not in use. Keep it out of the sun, as prolonged exposure will eventually degrade the materials;
- Protect it with a pillowcase or cover to prolong its life and make it simpler to maintain and clean. To avoid getting too hot while using, look for covers made of breathable materials that can be washed in the washing machine;
- Even the most well-made cushions will lose their shape and support after some time, so be sure to replace them when necessary.
Conclusion
Using an leg pillow before and after your flight can increase your comfort and lessen the likelihood of experiencing aches, pains, and other issues. Thus, if you frequently take long flights, you should think about purchasing a cushion the next time you take such a trip. Just make sure to pick one that works for you and combine it with other methods to ensure your comfort.
