Science Friday Science Friday

How do concussions affect the brain?

Sep 28, 2026 · 18m

Summary

Dr. Tina Shetty, former neurologist for the New York Giants, discusses the rising risk of CTE in NFL players and the evolving science of concussion treatment. She explains that concussions are functional connectivity injuries rather than structural damage, making them difficult to diagnose with standard scans. Shetty highlights critical shifts in care, including the importance of immediate sleep, protein intake, and the use of low-dose psychopharmacology to manage symptoms. She also addresses the challenges of self-advocacy for invisible injuries and the need for a holistic approach to reco…

Topics discussed

Sponsors and show introduction Intro to Dr. Tina Shetty and CTE study context Dr. Shetty's background with NFL and MLB teams Analyzing the new CTE risk study and diagnostic limits Genetic markers, athlete triage, and patient advocacy Blood tests vs. scans and the nature of functional injury Neurotransmitters, metabolic crisis, and non-impact concussions Why concussion symptoms vary and sensory issues Sponsor breaks: Poster House, Mohonk, NYC Votes, Planet Visionaries Modern treatment: Active intervention, protein, and sleep Pharmacological options and medical training gaps Recovery potential, post-concussive syndrome, and holistic care Guest bio, production credits, and final sponsor
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