Chokeholds have long been a controversial police tactic, but recent events have highlighted the grave danger they pose to those subjected to them. Following the death of George Floyd in May 2020, which was caused by a police officer kneeling on his neck, there has been a renewed focus on the use of chokeholds by law enforcement. Now, medical experts are warning of the lethal impact of these maneuvers.

Chokeholds are a type of restraint technique that involves applying pressure to the neck in order to subdue a suspect. The aim is to cut off the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, which can cause the person to lose consciousness. However, the risks associated with this technique are significant. If the hold is applied incorrectly or for too long, it can cause serious injury or even death.

Medical experts have long been aware of the dangers of chokeholds. A study published in the Journal of Emergency Medical Services found that in cases where chokeholds were used, the likelihood of death or serious injury was much higher than when other types of restraints were used. The study also found that chokeholds were more likely to result in long-term health problems, such as brain damage, than other types of restraints.

Despite the risks, chokeholds are still used by law enforcement in many parts of the world. This has led to calls for them to be banned altogether. In the United States, several cities have already implemented such bans in response to the outcry over the death of George Floyd. However, there are still many jurisdictions where chokeholds are permitted, and medical experts warn that this must change.

Dr. Jessica Flynn, an emergency physician at the University of Utah Health, says that the use of chokeholds is “an outdated and dangerous practice.” She explains that when pressure is applied to the neck, it can cause damage to the carotid artery and the vagus nerve, both of which are critical to the functioning of the brain. “Even a short period of time where the brain is deprived of oxygen can have serious consequences,” she says.

Dr. Flynn is not alone in her concerns. Many medical experts have spoken out against the use of chokeholds, arguing that they are unnecessary and dangerous. In a joint statement, the American College of Emergency Physicians and the National Medical Association called for an end to the use of chokeholds, citing the “potential for unnecessary injury and death.”

Despite the warnings from medical professionals, some law enforcement agencies continue to defend the use of chokeholds. They argue that these maneuvers are a necessary tool for subduing violent suspects, and that they can be used safely if applied correctly. However, many critics say that the risks associated with chokeholds are simply too great to justify their use.

The debate over chokeholds is likely to continue for some time, but one thing is clear: the medical community is united in its opposition to this dangerous practice. As more and more medical professionals speak out against the use of chokeholds, it is becoming increasingly clear that they pose a grave risk to the health and safety of those subjected to them. It is time for law enforcement agencies to take these warnings seriously and reconsider the use of this lethal tactic.