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PHYSICIAN
HIGHLIGHT
kenneth podell, PhD
The John M. O’Quinn Centennial Chair in Concussion Research and Care
Director, Houston Methodist Concussion Center
Director, Neuropsychology, Houston Methodist Stanley H. Appel
Department of Neurology
Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College
Q: Can you tell us a bit about neuropsychology and what you do?
Q: Can you tell us a bit about neuropsychology and what you do?
The field of neuropsychology sits at the intersection of brain function and behavior. Neuropsychologists are specialized psychologists who study, diagnose and treat brain conditions or injuries — such as neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease and brain injuries like concussions — that affect people’s behavior and cognitive skills, including mood, attention and decision-making.
The majority of my work is dedicated to concussion care; I integrate biology, psychology and social awareness into what I do. My focus is on helping concussed patients recover more quickly, advancing research to accelerate recovery, and educating the public about concussion awareness and prevention — especially around returning to academics after a sports-related concussion. Over the past 30-plus years of working with athletes from middle school through professional sports, I’ve found that the biggest hurdle in concussion care is self-recognition and helping individuals realize that concussions are treatable. More than 60% of people sustaining a concussion don’t report it or seek treatment. That’s why engaging with people in the Greater Houston community is key to reducing concussions and encouraging prompt care.
Q: What misconceptions about concussion should parents and coaches be aware of?
Q: What misconceptions about concussion should parents and coaches be aware of?
One misunderstanding is that you need complete rest after a concussion. For years, that had been the widely accepted course of action. But now we know that after a brief period of symptom-limiting rest for the first 48-72 hours, you’ve got to gradually start being active both physically and mentally — albeit slowly.
Another false impression is that concussions are short-lived. Concussions are complex injuries that affect multiple systems in the body. Typically, it’s not the brain that needs immediate treatment. In 80% of acute concussions, we’ll find neck, vestibular and ocular-motor issues that respond favorably to early intervention and treatment. But without timely and proper care, some patients can experience problems months after a concussion.
Dr. Podell serves as a neuropsychological and concussion care consultant to the Houston Texans, Houston Astros, Houston Dynamo, Houston Dash and Rice University
Q: What makes the Houston Methodist Concussion Center unique?
Q: What makes the Houston Methodist Concussion Center unique?
Unlike most hospital systems’ concussion centers — which are centralized — ours is a systemwide network of highly skilled specialists that reaches into the communities we serve. We have concussion specialists in each of our network hospitals and nearly all of our outpatient facilities. We’ve also recently integrated concussion therapy into all Houston Methodist physical and occupational therapy programs.
Q: As an endowed chair, what is your view of the power of philanthropy?
Q: As an endowed chair, what is your view of the power of philanthropy?
It’s critical. Philanthropic support empowers me to do two things that have the greatest impact: more research and broader engagement with our communities. It enabled us to be the first to show changes in the gut microbiome after a sports concussion. It also allows me to connect with and educate students, coaches, trainers and teachers. It means a great deal to me that there are others who share my passion and are willing to help me help others. They have entrusted me with resources to accomplish that, and I take that very seriously.
