Russian fitness influencer Mariana Barutkina is recovering from a serious spinal injury after participating in a dangerous social media trend inspired by Nicki Minaj’s song High School.
The 32-year-old mother of two, just eight weeks postpartum, attempted the viral “Stiletto Challenge”, which involves squatting in high heels — and in this case, while balancing on precarious kitchen items.
In a now-deleted facebook video, Barutkina is seen standing in stilettos on a baby food jar, which was stacked on a saucepan, all placed on a kitchen counter.
The stunt took a terrifying turn when the pot slipped beneath her, causing her to fall backwards and land heavily on the kitchen floor.
She was later diagnosed with a Th9 compression fracture, a serious spinal injury affecting the middle of the back. Though she avoided paralysis, Mariana now faces a lengthy period of rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
Reactions from the Public
The incident has sparked widespread discussion online, drawing both sympathy and criticism from viewers.
According to The Nightly, several users expressed concern and disbelief:
“I’m sorry, of course, but what do people have in their heads who repeat this trash? Which is immediately visible that it is dangerous to health! I wish you a speedy recovery!”
“Well, you’re all like teenagers climbing street signs, kindergarten.”
“And she looked like an adult.”
Others sent simple messages of support:
“Wishing you a speedy recovery.”
In response to growing backlash regarding her responsibility as a mother, Barutkina addressed the public’s concerns, stating:
“Whoever worries about my child should also be calm, he has two nannies and while I was filming one of them was with him.”
A Cautionary Tale
Barutkina, known for promoting fitness and postpartum strength, has now become a cautionary example of how far some online trends can go — especially when safety is ignored in pursuit of viral fame.
Medical professionals have reiterated the importance of avoiding unstable surfaces and risky activities, particularly for new mothers recovering from childbirth.
Compression fractures such as Mariana’s can take months to heal and may carry lasting implications for mobility and health
by esther njoroge
