On April 4, 2025, Dr. Alexander Myasnikov, a prominent Russian physician and television presenter, issued a stark warning to the public regarding the dangers associated with neck manipulations performed by manual therapists and osteopaths. During an episode of the program "O Samom Glavnom" (On the Most Important), Myasnikov emphasized that such procedures could have severe consequences, including death.
Dr. Myasnikov explained that sharp movements of the neck could potentially lead to serious injuries, such as the rupture of the vertebral artery or fractures of the cervical vertebrae. These injuries, he cautioned, might result in strokes or long-term disability. "Remember this once and for all: if anyone from manual therapists or osteopaths, even the smartest doctors in the world, offers you a neck manipulation, run away from that doctor," he stated emphatically.
According to U.S. statistics cited by Myasnikov, approximately 30 individuals die each year as a result of neck manipulations. This alarming statistic underscores the risks associated with these procedures, which are often perceived as harmless or beneficial.
In a related health warning, Dr. Myasnikov's comments come in the wake of other medical advisories. For instance, cardiologist Viktor Goncharov previously discussed scenarios where physical exertion could be detrimental to health. Such insights highlight the importance of seeking professional medical advice before undergoing any treatment.
Meanwhile, in Kaliningrad, the Chinese automotive brand BAIC has launched a promotional campaign offering significant discounts on several models, effective from March 20 to April 30, 2025. This initiative aims to boost sales and attract new customers in the region.
Among the vehicles featured in the promotion is the BAIC U5 Plus 2024 sedan, which can be purchased for 1,344,000 rubles in the Luxury configuration with a manual transmission. The model equipped with a variator in the same configuration is priced at 1,655,000 rubles, while the top-end Honor configuration will cost 1,709,000 rubles. The BAIC U5 Plus is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that delivers 105 horsepower, making it a suitable choice for urban driving.
Additionally, the mid-size BAIC X55 crossover is also available at a new recommended retail price of 1,909,000 rubles for the basic Comfort configuration. This vehicle is noted for its excellent aerodynamics and driving dynamics, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for drivers.
Another highlight of the promotion is the BAIC X75, a family crossover considered the flagship model of the brand. It is available from 2,319,000 rubles and boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 177 horsepower, meeting Euro-6 environmental standards. This model is particularly notable for being the first in the industry to feature a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT), enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency.
The rugged BAIC BJ40 off-road vehicle is also included in the promotional offer, available with both gasoline and diesel engines. The gasoline variant is offered in Flagship and Champion configurations, priced at 3,315,000 and 3,447,000 rubles, respectively. The diesel model is available in the Exclusive configuration for 3,359,000 rubles. All BAIC vehicles are produced at the AVTOTOR plant in Kaliningrad, ensuring local availability for customers.
As the public heeds Dr. Myasnikov's warnings regarding neck manipulations, the ongoing promotions from BAIC provide an alternative avenue for consumers looking to make significant purchases. The juxtaposition of health advisories and automotive sales highlights the diverse range of issues currently affecting the Russian populace.
In other news, a resident of Great Britain recently discovered that she had lost 12 centimeters in height due to an unexpected illness, a situation that took four years for her to diagnose. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular health check-ups and the need for awareness regarding unusual symptoms.
Overall, the warnings from medical professionals like Dr. Myasnikov, combined with the promotional activities from companies like BAIC, illustrate the complexities of health and consumer choices in contemporary society. As individuals navigate these challenges, it remains crucial to prioritize well-being while also considering economic opportunities.
