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The latest news regarding Patriot's Aaron Hernandez pathology results of his brain are concerning, but not surprising.  As professionals in the field, we follow the seemingly never ending parade of athletes who are succumbing to the devastating degenerative effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).  Many of them are ending their lives by their own hand and at times, involve the lives of others.  Even though researchers are still leery about connecting the wayward behavioral and cognitive changes to this disease, the relationship between the two co-existing is clear. But what about all the other athletes (in typical non-contact sports), recreational sport players and extreme Ninja Warriors?  What about our youth sports programs?  What about our Veterans?  Should we be worried about all those folks?  In my opinion, yes indeed.  This…

Cortisol negatively influences retrieval of memories.  And where does this hormone come from?  Stress.  A study out of Ruhr University, Germany looked at participants' tactile sensation and how it changed once a dose of Cortisol was administered.  The results showed that memories formed within the hippocampus were disrupted and that new learning was suppressed.  More studies are needed to look into Corticosteriods as they are often prescribed during the rehab process and may actually inhibit plasticity. Read More.