TakotSubo heart attacks – rare and unusual
Takotsubo heart attacks or stress heart attacks are both rare and give unusual presentations. Therefore to have a client who has had one at just 51 was both a surprise and a learning opportunity. It is also know as “Broken Heart Syndrome“.
The reason I have written this post is because more people need to know what to look for – and how Osteopathy can help.
Takot Subo comes from a Japanese name for octopus trap! It’s because the left ventricle enlarges and deforms into an unusual shape – similar to these clay pot traps which have a distinct neck and flatter bottom. The main symptom is chest tightness, no pain!, and feeling faint or overly tired. It is usually found in younger age groups – my client was only 51yo.
As a result of this change in structure, the function of the heart also changes. The heart beats still, of course, but the chamber and musculature does not work the same and it can lead to altered regulation – and hence to a far increased risk of heart attacks.
My lovely client and I thought it was worthwhile her explaining her side of the story and what happened to her in more detail – just in case you recognise the signs of A) a heart attack, B) an unusual presentation and C) a Takot Subo heart attack.
NB Takot Subo is characterised by NO PAIN in the chest, but there is usually a tight band around the chest and back, fatigue and a loss of full reality.
Here is her story:
Whilst the hospital and doctors / consultants have been fabulous with the initial treatment and physio follow up the advantage of coming to see me as an Osteopath – was I look at the WHOLE body, integrations and adaptations to the heart attack and life in general as well.
My job has been to align her spine and neck, release the neck in particular so that she could turn her head properly (making her safer to drive) and this also stopped the numerous dizzy spells immediately. With all this normalising of her structures and function has improved her sleeping, concentration and memory (she is also peri-menopausal) a lot. This in turn has radically changed her energy levels and helped her manage life in general.
In short – a visit to me has radically changed what she can do in everyday life, bring back her confidence and do what she wants to do without fear.
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If you have questions – ask away in the comments.
If you wish to make an appointment or come in for a body check (I call it an MOT) book yourself in online via https://living-elements-clinic.cliniko.com/bookings
© Gayle Palmer Living Elements Clinic 2023
