NBA WAG Haleigh Caruso Shares Update on Mini-Stroke Recovery

Caruso underwent genetic testing to determine the cause of her two torn arteries.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Haleigh Caruso, the wife of Oklahoma City Thunder player Alex Caruso, has shared an update on her health after being diagnosed with a mini-stroke last year. Caruso revealed that she underwent genetic testing to find the underlying cause of her two torn arteries, but the results showed she does not have any disease markers that would cause the thinning of her arterial walls. She is now working with a neurosurgeon to manage her condition, which was attributed to the effects of a massage using a Theragun.

Why it matters

Caruso's case highlights the importance of seeking medical attention for unusual health issues, as well as the value of genetic testing in determining the root cause of certain medical conditions. Her experience also sheds light on the potential risks associated with certain wellness treatments, such as massage guns, and the need for caution when using these devices.

The details

In November 2025, Haleigh Caruso was diagnosed with a transient ischemic attack, or mini-stroke, caused by a dissected vertebral artery. Weeks later, her doctors discovered a second vertebral artery was also torn. Due to the irregularity of her situation, Caruso underwent genetic testing to find out if there were any underlying issues or disease factors causing the two tears. The results showed she does not have any disease markers that would cause the thinning of her arterial walls, and the doctors attributed the tears to the effects of a massage using a Theragun.

  • In November 2025, Caruso was diagnosed with a mini-stroke.
  • Weeks later, her doctors discovered a second torn artery.
  • In January 2026, Caruso shared a follow-up video about the second torn artery.
  • On February 24, 2026, Caruso posted a TikTok video with the results of her genetic testing.

The players

Haleigh Caruso

The wife of Oklahoma City Thunder player Alex Caruso, who was diagnosed with a mini-stroke and two torn arteries.

Alex Caruso

The Oklahoma City Thunder player and Haleigh Caruso's husband.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not a carrier for any of those, which was honestly such a relief to me. I didn't know how much it was weighing on me waiting for those test results.”

— Haleigh Caruso (TikTok)

“I can feel immediately ... my blood literally pulsing in the back of my head whenever I push it too far.”

— Haleigh Caruso (TikTok)

What’s next

Caruso is continuing to see a neurosurgeon who specializes in vascular issues, and they have opted out of a surgical route for now. She is on blood thinners and will undergo another scan in a few months to determine if any further action is needed.

The takeaway

Caruso's case highlights the importance of seeking medical attention for unusual health issues and the value of genetic testing in determining the root cause of certain medical conditions. Her experience also underscores the potential risks associated with certain wellness treatments and the need for caution when using these devices.