The Calf Muscle Pump
Did you know that your calf muscles are often called the ‘second heart’? As the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to your whole body it benefits from some help by your calf muscles to keep the oxygen-depleted blood flowing round the system – against gravity. Your calf muscles give the blood an extra push through the veins back in the direction of your heart.
Because the calf muscle assists the heart in circulating blood throughout your body it’s really important to keep them strong and healthy.
One study published in the Journal of Biomechanics in November of 2014 found that men and women with chronic heart failure had smaller calf muscles than healthy people with fully functional hearts. So, if you can keep your calf muscles strong and well-nourished, you can help your heart by improving what’s called the venous return from your lower extremities. This has a powerful impact on your overall health and well-being, so it’s time to get moving.
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Calf exercises
One of the best things you can do is walk. So it’s time to get moving. The following exercises are also good. Not sure? Ask us how.
- Heel raises
- Lunges
- Toe walks
- Foot pumps
Calf stretches
It’s also important to stretch your calf muscles. One of the easiest ways to do this is to sit on the floor and use an exercise band or towel to pull your toes towards you. Ask us to show you at your next appointment.
If you feel you’ve overdone it and want to discuss a niggle or a twinge, call us on 01747 851455. Or email me at hello@shaftesburychiropractic.co.uk
All the best,
The team at Shaftesbury Chiropractic
