What is a Concussion?

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive deep into the abnormal physiology that occurs at the cellular level during a concussion. From the disruption of ion gradients in neurons to the neurometabolic cascade that follows, we explore how these changes lead to an energy deficit disorder in the brain. Understanding these processes is crucial for grasping the long-term effects of concussions, including energy imbalance and neuronal dysfunction. Join us as we break down the intricate mechanisms behind concussion-related brain injury and their long-lasting consequences.-       Introduction/ Episode Set Up-       Cleaned Up; AFL and Concussions (02:16)-       Why I always ask “What is a Concussion?” & How I Approach the Definition (08:45)-       Whiplash, Concussion and the Complexities (12:16)-       What is a Concussion? (13:54)-       Grey and White Matter (17:04)-       Neurons (18:30)-       ATP (21:27)-       Action Potentials (23:08)-       Concussion Physiology – Stretching and Shearing (27:45)-       Excitatory Phase of Concussion (29:35)-       Spreading Depression Phase (34:35)-       Delayed onset concussion? (38:30)  Episode Resources:-       https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30074832/-       https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S209525462030154X-       https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25232881/ -       https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2025-luke-beveridge-says-jackson-archer-shouldnt-be-suspended-luke-cleary-concussion-western-bulldogs-vs-north-melbourne-afl-360-latest-news/news-story/28569985fc6a1ad0934f5521573596af -       https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/teams/brisbane-lions/afl-2025-brandon-starcevich-future-after-latest-concussion-contracts-talks-with-brisbane-lions-free-agency-latest-news/news-story/f96c1b4f87c9312721ab0da7a956dea0  Subscribe, review and share for new episodes which will drop fortnightlySocial media:Twitter: @first concussionFacebook: Headfirst: A concussion podcastInstagram: Headfirst_ Concussion  Email: [email protected]