Eye of the Storm (Hudson 3)

oxygen, what we call venous blood, is pumped

through the leg muscle pump from the legs to the

heart.

"The veins of the legs have valves which are

similar to those of the heart. They allow blood to pass

through towards the heart while they prevent the

blood flowing backwards towards the foot. In this way

they only allow blood flow in one direction: toward

the heart.

"During the pumping phase or muscle

contraction, the pressure within the veins is increased,

pumping the venous blood towards the heart. "During the filling phase or muscle relaxation,

the pressure within the veins is reduced and the veins

fill themselves with blood in preparation for the next

pumping phase. This prevents thrombosis, blood

clotting, and increases peripheral circulation which is

necessary for tissue nutrition, oxygenation and

removal of metabolic waste. And yes, muscle

strength, prevention of atrophy.

"Well?" he said standing back with his hands

on his hips.

"Well what?"

"Aren't you impressed yet?"

"Overwhelmed," I said and he laughed. "Okay. Let's just start and see where we go,

okay?"

He went over to the equipment and brought out

a rolled thick mat that he undid and spread on the

floor. Then he looked at me.

"We'll go through a very basic evaluation. You

know what I want you to do first?"