Dr Timothy Steel

07/07/2025

Sports concussions: what does the science actually tell us?

During my time at the University of Washington, I saw first-hand how American footballers coached their players to tackle and the issues it may present. My latest video addresses common misconceptions about brain injuries, sharing evidence-based insights on diagnosis, recovery protocols, and long-term effects.

From understanding what happens during brain trauma to realistic recovery expectations, hopefully I can help provide the clear, medical perspective that athletes, parents, and coaches need.

Watch the full interview for expert insights on concussion care and brain health.

27/03/2024

In the future, MRI scans will become the primary tool for assessing spinal issues, out-performing X-rays or CT scans. Their comprehensive view of bodily structures offers immense benefits. As MRI usage grows, expect costs to decrease, making this superior imaging technology more accessible.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cq4XMNyL2Yp/

20/03/2024

30% of the population will develop neck pain over their lifetime. The pain is usually due to a disc herniation. If the disc protrusion is minor, pain tends to resolve over 4-8 weeks. Large disc protrusions, however, compress the spinal cord and nerves, leading to much more prolonged and serious pain.

Introduction 30% of the population will develop significant neck pain. The pain is usually due to a disc herniation. If the disc protrusion is small pain tends to resolve over 4-8 weeks. Large disc protrusions compress the spinal cord and nerves leading to pain in the neck and arm i.e. cervical brac...

12/03/2024

Obesity increases the risk of back pain by adding extra strain on the spine. Managing weight through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes can help alleviate back pain and prevent future spinal issues.

Do individuals who are obese have a higher likelihood of experiencing back pain?When someone is overweight or obese, they often put an extra 10-20kgs of pres...

26/02/2024

Concussions in contact sports can lead to long-term brain health issues, including cognitive impairments. Prioritising head protection and safety measures is crucial to mitigate risks. Awareness and preventive actions can protect athletes' neurological well-being.

The impact of concussions, particularly repetitive ones in contact sports, on long-term brain health is a topic of growing concern and…

22/02/2024

Balancing desk time with movement is key to maintaining overall good health when working a sedentary job. Incorporate regular breaks, daily step goals, and moderate exercise to counteract the downsides of prolonged sitting. Small changes lead to big health benefits.

Do you have a sedentary job? Are you spending 6-8 hours a day at your desk? Having a predominantly sedentary job does have its benefits, as it doesn’t put th...

15/02/2024

The wrong pillow can lead to neck stiffness and poor sleep, impacting overall well-being. Learn the importance of pillow material, shape, and firmness for your spinal health.

Many pillows are marketed as being suitable for spinal comfort, and yes, I do believe a pillow can impact your spinal health and comfort; however, not everyo...

13/12/2023

Neuro and Spinal Surgeon, Dr Timothy Steel, answers some of your most asked questions.

Dr Timothy Steel has been a practising surgeon for over 21 years. He has performed more than 2,000 brain surgery procedures, more than 8,000 minimally invasive spine procedures, and more than 2,000 complex spine procedures, such as disc replacement and fusion surgeries.

In this video, Dr Timothy Steel answers the following commonly asked questions:

Can exercise alleviate or prevent back pain?

Can a bed pillow cause neck or back pain?

Should I be using an ergonomic chair at work?

If you have a question that you would like Dr Timothy Steel to answer, please leave a comment below.

28/09/2023

As a neurosurgeon and specialist in spinal health, I'm concerned about the impact of children's heavy school bags on their spine. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

05/09/2023

Does the pillow you use impact your spine?

Many pillows are marketed as being suitable for spinal comfort, and yes, I do believe a pillow can impact your spinal health and comfort; however, not everyone sleeps the same and has the same needs in a pillow.

Therefore, your comfort in your chosen sleeping position determines the right pillow for you. Pillows that restrict movement or lack contouring tend to be less advantageous, as they can keep your neck fixed in a single position overnight, potentially leading to morning neck discomfort.

If you're a side sleeper, an ideal pillow should maintain your neck in a neutral alignment. It should strike a balance between size, preventing excessive height or inadequacy, while still allowing you to shift positions during the night.

The composition of the pillow material isn't the key factor; what truly matters is that your neck receives proper support, and you can adjust your position comfortably.

21/08/2023

Are ergonomic chairs worth the money?

Ergonomic chairs have gained popularity in recent years, particularly in the corporate world, where sitting at a desk all day is a common occurrence. Although they are popular, ergonomic chairs are quite expensive, and I am often asked if they’re worth it.

My advice is that if you are planning on spending 6 to 10 hours a day sitting in a chair, you should prioritise choosing a chair with ergonomic comfort. Ideally, you want to be able to get up at the end of the day and feel no discomfort from prolonged sitting. Thus, a well-cushioned, body-contoured chair is recommended.

It's important to find a chair that suits your preferences, and conforms to your body's natural shape, preferably with arm support. It should provide reasonable comfort and facilitate movement, preventing you from being stationary for an extended period.

15/08/2023

Can concussions have long-lasting effects on the brain?

Undoubtedly, there is evidence showing that concussions, especially repetitive ones in sports, can have long-term consequences. The jarring of the brain during these injuries can result in permanent neurological issues. These may manifest as difficulties with concentration, reduced IQ, and other cognitive impairments.

It's important to note that concussions themselves do not lead to progressive neurological diseases; however, the cumulative effect of repetitive concussions can cause ongoing problems.

Given this understanding, it would be wise for athletes to prioritise head protection, especially in contact sports like rugby league, union, and AFL. Implementing some form of skull protection could significantly mitigate the impact they experience during direct frontal assaults and head collisions, which are quite common in these sports. By wearing appropriate headgear, players may reduce the risk of sustaining severe damage and help safeguard their long-term neurological health.