Author Archive

Elizabeth Sandel

Elizabeth Sandel, MD, is a nationally and internationally recognized concussion specialist who has been helping brain injury patients for more than three decades. Board-certified in both Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) and Brain Injury Medicine (BIM), Dr. Sandel has conducted extensive research on concussions and other brain injuries. She now shares her expertise and raises awareness about the risks and effects of this common but often misunderstood injury, and the best practices for care. Her recent book "Shaken Brain: The Science, Care and Treatment of Concussion" helps readers understand causes of concussions and other traumatic brain injuries, the possible long-term consequences, and the latest treatments available.

Brain Injury Talk Radio

Shaken Brain with Dr. Elizabeth Sandel on Recovery Now with Kim Justus

Dr. Sandel discusses brain injury medicine, a new subspecialty of medicine, and getting the best care after a concussion or more severe brain injury in the US. Kim Justus discusses her own history in regards to brain injury and her struggles to find care. She also discusses Dr. Sandel’s book, Shaken Brain, as a helpful resource for listeners.

89.3 FM WRFG

The Shaken Brain with Mark Gilson featuring Elizabeth Sandel, M.D.

Mark Gilson WRFG Atlanta interviews Dr. Sandel. The interview is accompanied by thematic music about the brain and includes a discussion with Dr. Sandel on medical and societal issues related to brain injuries.

94.1 KPFA

Nurse Rona Interviews Dr. Elizabeth Sandel

Nurse Rona Renner of KPFA interviews Dr. Sandel about her book, Shaken Brain. They discuss the many causes of concussions and how patients are best evaluated and treated. She fields questions about the neurodegenerative conditions that are associated with brain injuries, especially repetitive brain injuries.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: PM&R

The Medical Specialty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

A physiatrist (physical medicine and rehabilitation physician) treats disorders of the muscles, bones, and nervous system, and may practice in inpatient or outpatient settings. Physiatrists usually provide care with other rehabilitation providers such as physical, occupational, and speech therapists, and may work in teams for patients with catastrophic injuries or complex disorders, especially in rehabilitation hospitals.

brain and sleep

Rest Assured: Quality Sleep Supports Recovery From Brain Injury

Sleep disturbances are common after brain injury and require comprehensive evaluation and management. Other sleep disorders such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness are common. Some patients with brain injuries develop sleep apnea, and screening for this disorder is important because of the risk of hypoxia and strokes that lead to additional brain injury.

Dr. Elizabeth Sandel showing brain parts

Brain Injury Medicine: My Journey

Brain injury medicine requires additional training for neurologists, physiatrists, and psychiatrists to become board certified. The field is growing but a shortage of physicians with this specialized training is a challenge for patients to find expert care.

Dr. Andrew Judelson

Concussion in Youth Sports

Dr. Andrew Judelson, a physiatrist and sports medicine physician at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, discusses sports-related concussion evaluation and treatment at his outpatient clinic on Cape Cod.

Pair of combat boots and military helmet on wooden background, close up

TBI in Active Military and Veterans

Military blast injuries can impact the brain, the lungs, the heart, and other organs in the body. Early diagnosis is very important. Dr. Sandel discusses brain injuries in the military with physiatrist Dr. Hetal Lakhani and her patient, Richard Reeves.

Dr. Cheri Blauwet

Concussion in ParaSport

Dr. Cheri Baluwet, a Paralympic athlete, physiatrist and sports medicine physician, has insights on concussion in Paralympic sports, and the differences in evaluation, prevention, and management for these elite athletes.

Jacqueline Theis, OD

The Eyes are Key to Concussion Diagnosis and Treatment

Dr. Jacqueline Theis is a neuro-optometrist who specializes in the evaluation and management of athletes and other people who have experienced one or more concussions. She also speaks from her own experience of having had concussions playing soccer, and having difficulty finding experts.

Mom Talk Radi

Dr. Sandel Discusses Concussion Risks for Children

Dr. Sandel discusses concussion risks and prevention strategies for children on Mom Talk Radio. She talks albut diagnosis, recovery, and talking to kids about concussion. She has lots of advice about nursery products and playground injuries, and suggestions about websites for more information.

Girls in sports have higher rates of concussion, longer symptoms. Researchers ask why.

Dr. Sandel comments on the many possible reasons proposed for differences in concussion incidence and why males and females playing the same sport may have different rates of concussion and recovery times.

Keep up to date

Get updates on the latest in concussion, brain health, and science-related tools from Dr. Elizabeth Sandel, M.D.

By clicking SIGN UP, you agree to receive emails from Dr. Sandel and agree to our terms of use and privacy policy.