The effects of repeated concussions

Two weeks ago, the Miami Dolphins quarterback suffered his third diagnosed concussion in two years. He won’t be back on the field for at least a few weeks. However, some fans have suggested that he should retire from his young NFL career.

And last week, former Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre revealed that he has Parkinson’s disease while testifying at a congressional hearing on alleged misuse of welfare funds. Favre’s diagnosis has raised questions about the connection between repeated concussions and neurological disorders.

How many concussions are too many? MPR News anchor Angela Davis speaks with two doctors about how repeated concussions can affect us and the different treatment options available.

Guests:

• Dr. Michael Kasprzak is an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School. He is a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor – a physiatrist – and director of the Concussion Clinic at M Health Fairview.

• Dr. Jacqueline Palmer is an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School. She is a doctor of physical therapy and has a doctorate in biomechanics and movement sciences.

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Use the audio player above to listen to the entire conversation.