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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.
Be a Parent Advocate for Children and Youth Sports Concussions
Parents must communicate with the school after their son or daughter has a concussion to make sure that there are accommodations if needed during recovery.
Healing through Art & Science
Kaiser Foundation Rehabilitation Center, Kaiser Permanente’s regional rehabilitation inpatient and outpatient hospital in Vallejo, California celebrates its art program. The producers interview Dr. Sandel, a former Medical Director, and others at the Center about their work with patients using art as a medium of expression.
Empowering Your Kids to Speak up About Concussions in Youth Sports
There are many reasons why kids do not report concussions. They must be educated about brain injuries, including concussions. They must be empowered to report to an adult any symptoms after a blow to the head, neck, or body that causes neurological symptoms (like dizziness, headache, or confusion). Removal from the sport or activity followed by evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider should be expedited.
Talk to Your Kids About the Concussion Risk of Collision Sports
Children and adolescents must understand that if they have any symptoms after a blow or jolt to the head or neck they must stop immediately and get help from an adult.
A Neuropsychologist is a Brain Injury Expert
Neuropsychologists are psychologists with training in brain functioning. They offer evaluations, education, and counseling for people with brain injuries. Health can educators help, too, because education is a key part of concussion care.
What is ImPACT for Concussion and Who is It For?
The Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test (ImPACT), an FDA-approved computerized tool for evaluating people with a suspected concussion, is not a stand-alone diagnostic tool. A comprehensive evaluation that includes additional cognitive testing, a physical examination, and a care plan are necessary.
Getting Top-Notch Care after a Concussion
Concussion clinics vary in terms of protocols and personnel. Neuropsychologist Richard Delmonico discusses one model in the Kaiser Permanente health system.
Can We Adequately Treat Concussion?
Finding a physician specializing in brain injury medicine can be difficult because the field is relatively new, but there are resources to help.
Workplace Brain Injuries Require Specialized Care
Non-fatal workplace injuries have increased in recent years, and certain jobs like construction, forestry, agriculture, and emergency services have high rates. Prevention strategies can reduce risk, and both employers and workers can play key roles in lowering risks.
Concussion and Youth Football: What’s the Score?
Over a million youth ages 6-12 and 1.5 million age 12 to 17 play football, the most dangerous sport in America. Prevention efforts cannot take away all the risk.
The Consequences of Concussions Are Not Necessarily “Mild”
Caroline had a sports-related concussions on the soccer field. Immediate removal from a game or practice after a suspected concussion should be followed by a medical evaluation. Death and disability from second impact syndrome can be prevented with adherence to guidelines and laws enacted in all states and the District of Columbia.
Concussions or “Mild” Brain Injuries are Still Misunderstood
Even as the incidence of concussions is on the rise in the U.S. and in countries around the world, this injury from a blow to the head remains a largely misunderstood condition. Concussions happen to people from all walks of life—young athletes, the elderly, people injured in motor vehicle accidents,…
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