News reports about the missing Malaysian Airlines plane have brought airline travel and safety to the forefront. Passenger security is very important to airlines, and they do their best to show travelers safety procedures before each flight. However, after flying a time or two, most people are guilty of not paying attention or following along as these instructions are given. The most commonly broken “rule” is not wearing your seatbelt at all times. If you don’t buckle up, and then encounter severe turbulence, you could get the most common injury on an airplane. A broken ankle!
How Does Turbulence Cause A Broken Ankle?
There are 3 types of turbulence; mild, moderate, and severe. Mild turbulence is similar to what you would feel in a car on a very bumpy road. Moderate turbulence feels like a drop on a roller coaster, the up and down movement of a see-saw, or the sideways force on the tilt-a-whirl. Moderate turbulence can cause nausea, and in some people, the need to use the little bag from the seat pocket in front of them. Both mild and moderate turbulence can cause items that aren’t secured to fly around.(bottled beverages, anyone?) Finally, severe turbulence is very strong (G-Force) and can cause people who aren’t wearing their seatbelt to be thrown from their seat without warning. With this type of turbulence, your feet could slam into the floorboard or get stuck under a seat, causing a broken ankle.
What Can I Do To Stay Safe And Avoid A Broken Ankle?
- Review safety information at home before your flight if you haven’t flown in a while, or every 3 months if you are a frequent flyer. This will prepare you in case the plane is noisy, you can’t understand the attendant, or you can’t see the demonstration.
- As soon as you get to your seat, pull out the safety card from the seat pocket in front of you. Look it over, and when the flight attendant(s) begin the safety demonstration, follow along.
- Keep your seatbelt securely fastened at all times while seated.
- You should sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor, slightly behind your knees during the flight. This is the best positioning to avoid a broken ankle.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable, lace up shoes.
- Increased security at airports requiring travelers to take off their shoes during screening has led to more people wearing shoes that can be slipped off easily. Flip flops, loafers, and sandals are common, but make sure to have your sneakers in your carry on bag so you can change into them before the flight. If you are low on space, try a roll up compact shoe such as the Rollasole. (They have been provided at the Golden Globes for the past 3 years!)
Whether you are out of town and need foot care when you return home to Wappingers Falls, or you have traveled to the Hudson Valley and are having problems with your feet,Hollowbrook Foot Specialists is here for you, your family, and your friends. Schedule your appointment with Dr. David Schlam today by calling (845) 298 – 9074 or clicking here.
By: David Schlam
