Neurologist Warns of Three Yoga Poses That Could Trigger a Stroke

Yoga is among the most popular workout practices across the world, which has various mental and physical health benefits that include a strong body, great posture, less stress, and a low risk of various chronic and life-threatening diseases. However, a US-based neurologist has warned that a few yoga poses can significantly increase the risk of stroke, which can even be life-threatening. Also known as a brain attack, stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die within minutes due to a lack of oxygen. This interruption happens either from a blocked blood vessel or a blood vessel that ruptures and bleeds into the brain. “Yoga poses can potentially cause stroke by injuring

the arteries that run from the neck to the brain,” Dr. Jeremy M. Liff, a senior member of the Society of Neurointerventional Surgery at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine and Northwell Lenox Hill, told The Post.

Three yoga asanas you need to be wary of

Wheel pose

According to Dr Liff, there are various instances in the past of those performing this particular yoga pose suffering from a brain stroke. Even though it may not directly be a cause of stroke, extreme versions of backbends in wheel pose potentially lead to arterial dissections in the neck - a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke - especially if you have pre-existing conditions or have experienced previous neck pain or migraines. Experts believe the risk becomes even higher with improper technique, forced movements, or if the neck is placed in compromised positions, which makes it extremely important to avoid pushing limits and to be guided by an instructor, particularly if you are at risk.

Fish pose

Dr Hill shares the story of Susan Eaton, a physical therapist, on how she suffered a stroke about four days after performing the hyperextended neck pose, as she had torn her left carotid artery. Also known as Matsyasana, the fish pose can potentially lead to a stroke, especially for those with susceptible neck arteries, as the extreme backward neck extension causes arterial dissection and blood clots. Experts also warn that Fish Pose can injure neck arteries - a major reason why strokes happen in young people. Dr Hill suggests beginners and those with neck injuries, high or low blood pressure, or other medical conditions should avoid the traditional pose or seek guidance from a trained instructor to ensure the pose is practiced safely.

Hollowback handstand

Some time back, Business Standard had shared an inside story of fitness influencer Rebecca Lee, who had a stroke while filming a yoga tutorial for her more than 27,000 Instagram followers. In the tutorial, she positioned her body into a hollowback handstand—a difficult kind of handstand that involves arching her back and neck instead of keeping her whole body straight. Dr Hill says repeatedly doing this pose can lead to blurred vision and numbness in the limbs, ultimately tearing the carotid artery, which results in a stroke and brain aneurysm. However, Dr. Hill says that a few cases do not mean that yoga is unsafe to practice, as there are millions worldwide who do not face such issues. However, it is important not to push your bodies into extreme positions without proper guidance. It is always better to work on your postures, alignment, and practice hard before doing difficult asanas.