About this episode

The episode discusses the potential of cannabinoids in protecting athletes' brains from concussions and explores ongoing research in this area.

Could cannabinoids eventually help protect athletes’ brains from the repeated impacts of contact sports? In Part 2 of Kirk’s conversation with University of Regina researcher Dr. Patrick Neary, the focus shifts from proving that athletes can safely tolerate high doses of CBD to investigating whether cannabinoids may provide neuroprotection against concussions in contact sports. A double-blind crossover design compares a THC-free, broad-spectrum cannabinoid formulation with a placebo. Researchers measure cerebral blood flow, brain oxygenation, cardiovascular function, blood biomarkers and neural activity before and after treatment. Athletes who experience a concussion receive additional testing and symptom monitoring throughout their recovery. Dr. Neary also previews a planned pain-management study comparing CBD, THC, full-spectrum cannabinoids and placebo in former professional and junior athletes experiencing neuropathic or orthopedic pain. Kirk and Trevor discuss CBD safety, medication interactions, cannabis stigma and why rigorous research could change how professional sports leagues approach athlete recovery. Listen now to learn how Canadian researchers are testing…

People in this episode

Hosts: Kirk Nyquist, Trevor Shewfelt

Guest: Patrick Neary

Topics covered

• cannabis research
• athlete health
• neuroprotection
• concussions
• CBD
• sports medicine

Keywords

• cannabinoids
• concussions
• CBD
• THC
• athletes
• brain health
• pain management
• sports recovery

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Regina

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