Change Your Brain Every Day The Second Beginning: Life After Traumatic Brain Injury with Erik Johnson
Aug 10, 2026
Erik Johnson, former NHL defenseman and Stanley Cup champion turned analyst, shares his concussion recovery journey. He and Dr. Amen explore SPECT brain imaging that reveals hidden injury, discuss rehab approaches like hyperbaric therapy and neurofeedback, and reflect on mental health, changing hockey culture, and the motivation to rebuild and protect the brain.
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Erik Johnson's 2021 Concussion Journey
- Erik Johnson described the 2021 hit where he fell hard, lost sound and vision, got CT-cleared but developed persistent tinnitus, fog, and headaches.
- He sought Paul Kariya's referral and traveled to Daniel G Amen for SPECT imaging and a rehab plan instead of isolating in a dark room.
Don't Just Sit In A Dark Room After Concussion
- Do not default to prolonged dark-room rest after concussion; pursue active rehabilitation like supplements, hyperbaric oxygen, and targeted therapies.
- Erik chose proactive care, traveled for treatment, followed a plan, and reported significant recovery and return to performance.
SPECT Scans Provided A Roadmap For Recovery
- SPECT imaging revealed Erik's brain looked 'beat up' and gave a visual baseline that guided targeted rehab and measurable improvement on follow-up scans.
- Amen used the scans to show damaged, dysfunctional, and resilient regions and to map expected gains from therapy.
