An investigation of recommended lower leg exercises for induced calf muscle activity

Karol J. O'Donovan, Tadej Bajd, Pierce A. Grace, Derek T. O'Keeffe, Gerard M. Lyons

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Active voluntary contraction of the calf muscle is an essential factor in the circulatory system. Failure to exercise the calf muscles for prolonged periods may result in limited or poor blood circulation in the lower leg and increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). An association between long distance travel and increased risk of DVT has been established. Most airlines recommend a number of lower leg exercises as a DVT preventative measure. Not all lower leg exercises induce calf muscle pump activity and therefore may not be beneficial in the prevention of DVT. A study was devised to investigate the exercises recommended to passengers for DVT prevention on long distance flights to determine a potential benefit to the health and safety of the passenger. The technique used for the evaluation of recommended airline exercises for optimal calf muscle pump activity is described.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the Fourth IASTED International Conference on Biomedical Engineering
Pages214-219
Number of pages6
Publication statusPublished - 2006
Externally publishedYes
Event4th IASTED International Conference on Biomedical Engineering - Innsbruck, Austria
Duration: 15 Feb 200617 Feb 2006

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Fourth IASTED International Conference on Biomedical Engineering
Volume2006

Conference

Conference4th IASTED International Conference on Biomedical Engineering
Country/TerritoryAustria
CityInnsbruck
Period15/02/0617/02/06

Keywords

  • Calf muscle pump
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
  • Exercise
  • Joint coordinate system
  • Lower leg
  • Prevention

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