Introduction to Yoga and Stroke Risk
Yoga has a lot of flex appeal — it can increase strength, improve posture and lower the odds of developing chronic diseases. But a triple-board-certified neurologist warns that some yoga poses can raise the risk of stroke, a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted.
Yoga is widely used for stroke rehabilitation — in rare cases, it can also cause a stroke.
The Risk of Cervical Arterial Dissection
“Ironically, certain types of yoga can be helpful in aiding motor recovery following stroke,” 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. “However, other yoga poses can potentially cause strokes by injuring the arteries that run from the neck to the brain.” A cervical arterial dissection is a tear in the wall of a neck artery. A stroke occurs when blood enters the damaged wall and forms a clot that travels to the brain.
Causes of Cervical Arterial Dissection
Cervical arterial dissection is responsible for 1% to 2% of all strokes and up to 25% of strokes in young and middle-aged people, clinicians noted in a 2022 case report about a 63-year-old man who suffered arterial dissection after a yoga session. People have experienced spontaneous carotid artery dissection — a type of cervical artery dissection — for a variety of reasons, “from hyperextension of the neck during yoga or alcohol consumption to violent coughing and vomiting or chiropractic manipulation,” researchers wrote in April in the Annals of Vascular Surgery.
Hazardous Yoga Poses
Yoga poses that involve extreme neck extension or place weight and pressure on the head can be hazardous, particularly for those who are older or who suffer from cervical spine disease, Liff said. Dr. Jeremy M. Liff reveals how certain yoga poses can lead to stroke.
‘Wheel’ Pose
A 1973 case report — one of the first to document the potential for a stroke following yoga — revealed that a 28-year-old woman suffered a narrowing of her left vertebral artery and a stroke after doing the “wheel” pose. This is the “wheel” pose. It involves neck extension as the chest and spine arch backward.
‘Fish’ Pose
The “fish” pose, also known as Matsyasana, is a reclining back-bending move. Physical therapist Susan Eaton said she ran into trouble doing an advanced version of the pose that added more weight to her head and neck. The “fish” pose involves extreme backward extension of the neck, which can put pressure on the cervical spine.
Hollowback Handstand
Yoga influencer Rebecca Leigh said she was practicing the “pretty intense” handstand when her vision became blurry. “This pose requires you to extend your neck, drop your hips back and arch your lower spine all while upside down in a handstand,” she explained. A hollowback handstand involves arching your neck and back.
Prevention and Precautions
You should consult with a doctor before starting any exercise regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health issues. Over 795,000 Americans are expected to have a stroke this year, which can affect balance, vision and speech and cause drooping or numbness in the face. High blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can increase stroke risk, as well as poor habits like cigarette use, inactivity and excessive alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
While yoga can be beneficial for overall health and wellness, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain poses, particularly those that involve extreme neck extension or weight-bearing on the head. By understanding these risks and taking necessary precautions, individuals can enjoy the benefits of yoga while minimizing their risk of stroke.
FAQs
Q: Can yoga cause a stroke?
A: Yes, certain yoga poses can increase the risk of stroke, particularly those that involve extreme neck extension or weight-bearing on the head.
Q: What is cervical arterial dissection?
A: Cervical arterial dissection is a tear in the wall of a neck artery, which can lead to a stroke if blood enters the damaged wall and forms a clot that travels to the brain.
Q: How can I reduce my risk of stroke while practicing yoga?
A: Consult with a doctor before starting any exercise regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health issues, and avoid poses that involve extreme neck extension or weight-bearing on the head.
Q: What are the symptoms of a stroke?
A: Symptoms of a stroke can include drooping or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, blurred vision, and severe headache.
Q: How many Americans are expected to have a stroke this year?
A: Over 795,000 Americans are expected to have a stroke this year.
