TikTok user shares how they almost lost a leg after spin class went wrong

A TikToker says they were hospitalized after taking their first spin class, and a developed a near-fatal case of rhabdomyolysis.

User @kofranco_, who goes by Kaelyn, says that they decided to try spin because they are active and love to workout.

In the original TikTok, which has garnered over 3.1 million views, Kaelyn explains that she thought she had gained leg muscle from the workout, but ended up in the hospital and nearly losing her leg the very next day.

The 23-year-old went on to make several more videos explaining the incident.

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious medical condition that occurs when damaged muscle tissue releases its proteins and electrolytes into the blood. This can damage the heart and kidneys and cause permanent disability or even death. A 2017 study found that it’s not uncommon for spin class goers to develop the disease.

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In an Instagram post, Kaelyn further explains that their case of rhabdomylosis turned into acute compartment syndrome, and that doctors had to remove muscle that was breaking down into their bloodstream. The emergency surgery saved their life.

According to the study, researchers found 46 reported cases of rhabdo after a spin class, and 42 of those cases occurred after the individual’s first ever class. Three patients went on to develop acute kidney injury. Researchers concluded that “the high-intensity exercise associated with ‘spin class’ comes with significant risks to newcomers to spin.”

Kaelyn said that they disregarded their symptoms after the class, and regrets not going to the hospital sooner. “Even if you think its nothing,” they cautioned their followers, “You should go get checked.”