• In case you missed it: This week’s Top 5 stories on social media

Check out a few of the most popular News Network stories on @mayoclinic social media this past week.

Mayo Clinic performs its first paired living liver donation

People can donate up to 70% of their liver because the liver has the unique ability to regenerate itself within a month. While paired living donation is commonly used for kidney transplants, it is relatively rare for liver transplants. 

Surgeons recently performed Mayo Clinic's first paired living liver donation, a significant first step in helping more people with liver failure get a lifesaving transplant.

Mayo Clinic Minute: Radiation therapy for patients with breast cancer

Radiation therapy is a common component of breast cancer treatment for patients. The high-powered beams of intense energy kill cancer cells and reduce the risk of the cancer recurring.

Dr. Laura Vallow, chair of the Radiation Oncology Department at Mayo Clinic in Florida, explains how innovation is transforming radiation treatments.

Mayo Clinic Minute: Clean out old medications safely

Leftover or expired medications can be dangerous if not disposed of properly. Safely getting rid of unneeded prescriptions, like opioids or expired drugs, is essential to prevent misuse and accidental harm. 

Dr. Tina Ardon, a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician, says proper medication disposal helps safeguard your home and community from unnecessary risks.

What standing on one leg can tell you about aging

How long a person can stand — on one leg — is a more telltale measure of aging than changes in strength or gait, according to new Mayo Clinic research. Good balance, muscle strength and an efficient gait contribute to people's independence and well-being as they age.

Shockwave therapy may help relieve foot problem

Shockwave therapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses sound waves to transmit energy to tissues to help with the healing process. It can be used for foot and ankle issues including plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, stress fractures and shin splints.⁠