The statement that the calf is considered the second heart is a metaphorical description of the role of the calf muscles in the human body, particularly in the circulatory system. The metaphor helps explain the physiological function of the calf muscles in aiding blood circulation.
The calf muscles, specifically the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, are located in the lower part of the leg, below the knee. When these muscles contract, they assist in pumping deoxygenated blood back up towards the heart against the force of gravity. This is crucial in the circulatory system because the heart pumps oxygenated blood throughout the body, but it needs assistance in returning deoxygenated blood back to the heart.
As you walk or engage in physical activity, the calf muscles contract and relax, which squeezes the veins in the legs and propels blood upwards. This contraction helps to overcome the resistance of the venous valves and gravity, pushing blood towards the heart. Additionally, the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the calf muscles act as a pump, enhancing blood circulation.
The calf muscle pump, in conjunction with other mechanisms such as one-way valves in the veins and the pumping action of the heart, facilitates the return of blood from the lower extremities to the heart. The metaphorical term “second heart” emphasizes the significant role of the calf muscles in aiding blood circulation by providing an additional pumping mechanism, although it is not an anatomical heart.
It’s worth noting that other factors, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and proper hydration, also contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
Dr Neeraj Kaushik founder Kaushik Acupuncture & Complementary Medicine