In 1997 medical journal The Lancet published a report by two British doctors about a 42-year-old woman who suffered a stroke after having her hair washed. The experts said the stroke was due to "dissection of her right internal carotid artery".

Her head had been extended backwards for about five minutes while being washed and after the treatment she felt numb and suffered slurred speech. She made a partial recovery after being treated with anticoagulants.

Although older people with high blood pressure are more at risk in a situation like this, it must be stressed that the overall risk of such a thing happening is extremely small.

As a hairdresser, always provide a cushion or a supporting towel, and don't allow the neck to be overextended. Above all, ensure that the customer is comfortable before washing begins, check regularly and don't be afraid to  stop and reposition them if they experience any discomfort.

It is essential to remember that in the past twelve years there have been only two cases of Beauty Parlour Stroke Syndrome, despite the fact that there are 350 million salon visits in the UK each year. Training for hairdressers includes guidance on trying to limit the potential for injury or discomfort from this method of hair washing.