I previously posted advice on how to break a strangler's hold on your neck by quickly pushing very hard with your thumbs on the person's eyeballs. The optical nerve is directly behind the eyeball. Pressing hard and deep on the eyeballs will make the strangler pass out.
I recently received a comment from Jerry Lane, adding some great advice. Rather than post his advice in the Comments section, I decided to print his comment here in a full post, to give it the attention it deserves.
It's important to remember that if a person tries to strangle you once, they 'will' do it again. If you are temporarily unable to move away from this person, you 'must' be prepared for the next time.
Jerry says:
"I have a black belt in Judo and have been trained in the use of strangle holds. From a self-defense perspective, it is very important to take effective action quickly.
"It may take many minutes to kill someone with a choke or strangle. However, a properly applied strangle will cause someone to pass out within 8 to 10 seconds. Once you are unconscious, it's irrelevant how long it will take to kill you.
"Pressure on the eyeballs is an excellent self defense move, but some people are too squeamish to follow through with such a maneuver.
"Depending on how the attacker is applying the choke, you may buy a little extra time by tucking your chin to your chest and shrugging your shoulders (turtle up) to relieve some of the pressure.
"You must act immediately and effectively, since your attacker is most likely bigger and stronger. Pounding on arms or chest with your fists will most likely not work.
"Priority one is to relieve the pressure. If it's a front, manual choke, try to grab the attacker's thumbs and pry them off. Pull out and down with all your strength.
"If you cannot dislodge the thumbs, go for the little fingers. Apply as much force against the joints as you can. A properly applied pinky lock is very painful and can put a large man on his knees.
"Find someone to practice these maneuvers with until it becomes automatic. You won't have time to think if someone attacks you.
"One the strangle is released, your next priority is escape. Otherwise, the attack will probably resume.
"Remember, this is all happening in the span of a few seconds. Stomp on your attacker's instep (foot), or kick him hards in the shins or groin.
"While you're doing all this, scream for help. Make as much commotion as you can.
"I can't cover all the bases in this kind of post. Seek out a good self defense instructor and take lessons. Practice, practice, practice."
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Thank you so much, Jerry. This is such valuable information. I know you have saved lives by taking the time to post your information here.
And readers, don't forget the Jennifer Lopez film "Enough". She did exactly what Jerry is advising -- she found a good self defense instructor, got good training, and saved her own life by doing so. If you haven't seen it, make that a priority. 'Nuff said.
Hello, Lara --
I answered you thru your personal email immediately after you posted this.
I hope that you and anyone else in this kind of abusive, dangerous relationship will seek help from your local domestic violence organization.
The counseling is free and may save your life.
Lynn Melville
Author, Boomerang Love
Posted by: Lynn Melville | August 21, 2011 at 12:01 AM
My boyfriend has broken my nose, given me a concussion, thrown my back out so I couldn't walk at all and tried to strangle me dozens of times.
He tried to strangle me two days ago 3-5 times (I don't remember the exact number of attempts). One of the times he did apply the "properly applied strangle" that Jerry talks about, i felt myself passing out.
The only thing that stopped it was our pit bull who started growling and barking at him and diverted his attention. He let go of my neck and I could breathe.
I certainly understand the importance of knowing the techniques listed above.
Posted by: Lara | July 29, 2011 at 07:51 AM