*Rated 5 out of 5 in "iPhone & Co" (December 2010 issue)*
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a.k.a. "economy class syndrome", is a serious health risk on long-haul flights. DVT can lead to a fatal interruption of blood flow to the lungs (embolism). Studies have shown that up to 10% of air travelers develop DVT if no counter-measures are taken¹. This is mostly caused by the cramped seating position on airplanes, which inhibits the blood flow at critical points in the body. The extremely dry air on airplanes also increases the risk of developing DVT.
From a medical point of view, performing light gymnastic exercises while seated is the most important countermeasure against developing DVT.
iFly Safe contains 15 different exercises designed specifically to lower the risk of developing DVT. 11 of the 15 exercises can be performed while seated. The remaining 4 exercises are to be perfomed while standing. These exercises have been medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Reinhold Gruen, M.D., Berlin, Germany.
¹The Lancet. Issue May 12, 2001