Your body has a "second heart": a muscle that helps pump blood to the heart
The article discusses the role of calf muscles, often referred to as the 'second heart,' in aiding blood circulation back to the heart from the legs. These muscles act like pumps, compressing veins during movement such as walking, climbing stairs, or toe raises, which helps push blood upward against gravity. The article explains that insufficient physical activity can lead to poor circulation, causing swelling, heaviness, and pain in the legs, and potentially long-term vascular issues. Research highlights a correlation between the efficiency of this muscle pump and overall health, noting higher mortality rates among individuals with impaired function. However, the study does not establish a direct causal link but suggests that reduced muscle function may be associated with factors like inactivity, muscle loss, or joint problems. The article emphasizes simple solutions like walking, moving ankles while sitting, or raising heels to maintain proper circulation. It also mentions the importance of recognizing symptoms like sudden pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in a leg, which could indicate more serious conditions like blood clots.
Your body has a “second heart”: muscle helps pump blood back to the heart Scientists have identified a key mechanism in human physiology that functions much like a second heart, specifically, the muscles in the calves. These muscles play a crucial role in returning blood from the legs back toward the heart against gravity. This process, known as the “muscular pump,” is activated simply through movement such as walking up stairs, standing on tiptoes, or flexing the ankles. According to reports from Slovenian media, this natural system is essential for maintaining healthy circulation and preventing complications associated with prolonged sitting or lack of physical activity. The calf muscles, particularly the soleus muscle located deeper within the leg, act as a secondary pump during physical exertion. When these muscles contract, they compress veins and push blood upward toward the heart. Small valves within the veins prevent blood from flowing backward, ensuring efficient return flow. If this system is underused due to a sedentary lifestyle, blood can pool in the lower extremities, leading to swelling, heaviness, and even long-term vascular issues. Research published in 2020 involving over 2,700 adults found a correlation between the efficiency of the muscular pump and overall health outcomes. Individuals with optimal function had approximately six percent mortality rates over a decade, compared to nearly 18 percent among those with reduced function. While the study was observational, it suggests that impaired calf muscle function could be linked to increased cardiovascular risk. A larger study conducted in 2024, involving nearly 6,000 participants, further reinforced these findings, showing that individuals who pumped less blood during exercise faced higher mortality risks. The soleus muscle, which lies beneath the gastrocnemius, plays a unique role in energy expenditure and metabolic regulation. Studies suggest that its sustained activation can enhance glucose metabolism and fat utilization. A small trial involving individuals with prediabetes showed a modest reduction in blood sugar levels after regular calf muscle engagement through simple exercises. However, researchers emphasize that more extensive studies are needed to confirm these effects conclusively. Simple daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing on tiptoes can significantly activate the muscular pump. For those who spend long hours seated, taking brief breaks to move the legs or shift positions can help maintain circulation. Even minor movements, such as lifting the toes while seated, can stimulate the muscles. Experts recommend incorporating these actions into routine tasks, especially for office workers or individuals with limited mobility. While the benefits of physical activity extend beyond just the muscular pump, recent research highlights a nuanced distinction between different types of exercise. A large-scale study published in The Lancet Public Health revealed that leisure-time physical activity, such as sports, dancing, or gardening, was associated with a 24 percent lower risk of dementia. In contrast, work-related physical activity was linked to a 20 percent increased risk. This phenomenon, referred to as the “physical activity paradox,” underscores the importance of considering context when evaluating the health impacts of exercise. Researchers speculate that differences in exposure to environmental factors, educational opportunities, and cognitive stimulation may contribute to these disparities. Workers engaged in physically demanding jobs often face greater exposure to polluted environments, which is independently linked to higher dementia risk. Additionally, access to recreational activities varies widely, with low-income communities having significantly fewer opportunities for structured exercise. Despite these complexities, experts agree that regular movement remains one of the most effective ways to support both cardiovascular and neurological health. Whether through formal exercise routines or everyday activities, engaging the calf muscles and other musculoskeletal systems can yield substantial long-term benefits. As new studies continue to refine our understanding of how different forms of activity influence health, one thing remains clear: staying active is essential for maintaining well-being.
Go to the primary sources (1)
The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.
The article discusses recent research published in The Lancet Public Health, which suggests that physical activity during work hours or commuting may increase the risk of dementia by up to 20%, compared to leisure-time physical activities like sports or dancing, which reduce the risk by 24%. It highlights that while moderate exercise, such as walking or gardening, can lower dementia risk by 25–36%, certain types of work-related physical activity might offer less protection. The study analyzed data from over 4.2 million people across 30 countries, making it one of the largest of its kind. Researchers note this phenomenon, called the 'physical activity paradox,' and suggest possible explanations, including differences in educational opportunities and cognitive engagement between physically demanding jobs and office-based roles.
Bias read (Center): The article presents findings from multiple studies without overtly favoring any particular political stance. It objectively reports on the differing impacts of physical activity based on context, whether during leisure time or at work, and does not take a clear ideological position on health policies
Why factuality (85): The article cites research from The Lancet Public Health and mentions data from 74 studies involving over 4.2 million people across 30 countries, indicating a large sample size. It provides specific percentages (24%, 15%, 20%) and explains mechanisms by which physical activity may protect against de
Why objectivity (80): The tone remains informative and educational, focusing on health benefits without overt bias. However, there is some promotional language around WHO guidelines and a slight emphasis on the importance of physical activity, which slightly reduces objectivity.
The article discusses the role of calf muscles, often referred to as the 'second heart,' in aiding blood circulation back to the heart from the legs. These muscles act like pumps, compressing veins during movement such as walking, climbing stairs, or toe raises, which helps push blood upward against gravity. The article explains that insufficient physical activity can lead to poor circulation, causing swelling, heaviness, and pain in the legs, and potentially long-term vascular issues. Research highlights a correlation between the efficiency of this muscle pump and overall health, noting higher mortality rates among individuals with impaired function. However, the study does not establish a direct causal link but suggests that reduced muscle function may be associated with factors like inactivity, muscle loss, or joint problems. The article emphasizes simple solutions like walking, moving ankles while sitting, or raising heels to maintain proper circulation. It also mentions the importance of recognizing symptoms like sudden pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in a leg, which could indicate more serious conditions like blood clots.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on general health and physiological processes related to muscle function and circulation. There is no mention of political figures, policies, or contentious issues. The content is purely informative and scientific, with no apparent ideological framing or bias.
Why factuality (80): The article references a 2020 study involving 2728 adults and a 2024 study with nearly 6000 participants, providing specific mortality rates (6% vs. 18%). These figures are presented as findings rather than opinions, supporting the claim about the 'second heart' function of leg muscles. The informat
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral and explanatory tone, discussing the physiological role of leg muscles without taking sides or promoting any particular viewpoint. It presents scientific findings without emotional language or editorializing.
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.
Slovenia
