Taking Care of Your “Second Heart”

When we think about what pumps blood through the body, we usually picture the heart. But our body is an interconnected system, with organs, tissues, and muscles all working together to keep us healthy. One lesser-known player in that system is the calf muscle which is often referred to as the body’s “second heart.”

The Function of Calves

Every time you lift your heel, flex your foot, or take a step, your calf muscles contract.

As they contract, they gently squeeze the deep veins that run through your lower legs. Inside these veins are small one-way valves that open and close with each movement, pushing blood upward and preventing it from falling back down. This natural pumping action helps your blood return to the heart against the pull of gravity. Movement is what keeps this pump working properly. Without this pumping mechanism, blood can stagnate in the lower limbs, leading to swelling, discomfort, or even conditions such as varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency When you sit or stand still for long stretches, the calf muscles don’t contract, and circulation slows down. This is one reason why long plane rides or hours spent sitting can leave the legs feeling heavy or swollen. How to Support Healthy Calf Function

The most effective way to keep your calf muscles strong and working properly is to move your legs often throughout the day. Regular walking, running, or jogging or other aerobic exercises activates the muscle pump. If walking for long stretches is difficult due to mobility issues, calf stretches like the runner's stretch or a sit-and-reach may help. As always, it is best to speak with your health provider to discuss personalized exercises for you.

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At Elder Love USA, we understand how important it is for older adults to stay healthy.  That's why we are dedicated to providing compassionate and affordable in-home care for older adults in the comfort of their own homes. Our mission is to help older adults maintain their independence and live their best lives at home while receiving the care they deserve.  We proudly serve Riverside County, CA, San Diego County, CA, San Bernardino County, CA, Orange County, CA, Imperial County, CA, and Phoenix, AZ.

If you’d like to learn more about how our services can benefit you or your loved one, contact us today.

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