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Leg veins and the
muscle pump |
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The leg veins carry a large volume of blood, which
collects in the lower legs as a result of gravity. These veins are
surrounded by strong calf muscles, which act as a kind of pump to
help the blood return to the heart. Every time you use your leg
muscles, by walking or exercising your feet and legs, you are
helping the ‘muscle pump’ to do its job.
When you sit or stand still, the muscle pump stops working and the
action of gravity pools blood into the leg veins. Pressure begins to
build up and fluid starts to leak out into the tissues, until the
muscles get going again.
An active healthy muscle pump helps the legs stay feeling light and
comfortable. Anything that interferes with this mechanism, including
certain lifestyles, can lead to a build up of fluid and
uncomfortable feelings such as aching, heavy and tired legs.
Excess fluid leaking out into the surrounding leg tissues leading to
aching, heavy, tired legs. |
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