Can I Get Stretch Syncope From Stretching My Hamstrings?

Syncope is simply fainting followed by a quick recovery, and there are several possible causes. Stretch syncope results from stretching the upper portion of your body in an unnatural manner. Excessive arching of your back or hyper-extending the neck may lead to stretch syncope. Properly stretching the hamstrings puts you in no danger of fainting but statically standing with your knees locked out for an extended period may. Vasovagal syncope is the term relating to this issue. Experiencing syncope may be a sign of an underlying health concern requiring medical attention.

How Syncope Occurs

Essentially, when your brain's oxygen supply is insufficient, you lose consciousness. Your cardiovascular system carries oxygen within your bloodstream throughout your body, delivering it to necessary muscles and tissues. The amount of blood dictates your blood pressure, and sudden plunges restrict the flow to your brain. When this happens, blood and oxygen are subsequently unavailable, therefore you pass out. Healthy individuals may experience syncope when suffering from heat ailments or during severe emotional distress. Occasionally, standing up too quickly induces a drop in blood pressure, which in turn makes you faint. Prolonged stillness with straightened legs allows blood to pool in the lower body, which decreases blood flow in the upper body and brain, ensuing in vasovagal syncope.

Stretch Syncope

Stretch syncope comes from improper upper-limb stretches curtailing your brain's oxygen supply. Stretch syncope is less common than other fainting ailments and typically occurs during adolescence. While your hamstrings are innocent, going beyond your full range of motion while stretching your arms, back and, particularly, your neck, can limit blood flow to your brain instigating a fainting spell. A report regarding stretch syncope from the "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry" states, "In adolescents there is a distinct clinical syncope syndrome -- namely, stretch syncope. This is characterized by a specific inducing posture namely, stretching with the neck hyper extended." Hyper-extension is simply a movement that goes past the anatomically correct position.

Symptoms and Treatment

Possible syncope indicators include cold, clammy sweat, nausea and light-headedness. Some people appear pale, have a feeling of warmth or experience tunnel vision. Stretch syncope victims may lack symptoms all together. There is an inherent risk of head injury to those who pass out. It is advisable that you see a doctor after fainting, particularly when the cause is unknown or it is the first occurrence. Remaining hydrated keeps your fluids balanced and assists with proper blood flow, decreasing your chance of overheating and syncope.

Proper Stretching

Stretching your legs should not hinder your brain's oxygen provisions. While proper stretching technique calls for holding still and not bouncing, the duration is short. Stretching your hamstrings helps ward off soreness and prevent injury. Appropriate stretching means you stop when you feel slight discomfort, before the point of pain. Gradually move into position and hold your stretch for a few seconds before relaxing. Repeat this up to 12 times, with the ideal time to stretch being after a workout when your muscles are loose and warm. Pre-exercise stretching requires a five- to 10-minute warm-up.