Overview
- Joel revealed on his SiriusXM channel Wednesday that he underwent surgery to have a shunt implanted to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus.
- Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid presses on the brain and doctors treat it by placing a flexible tube, called a shunt, to drain the fluid and relieve pressure.
- Joel said the disorder caused a persistent rocking sensation and contributed to a fall on Feb. 22, 2025, which helped trigger his diagnosis and the cancellation of shows in May 2025.
- He told listeners the shunt has produced noticeable gains in his memory, balance and daily functioning, but his medical team has advised physical therapy and a break from loud, full concerts to avoid further nerve damage.
- While Joel reassured fans that he is improving and ‘still here,’ uncertainty remains about a return to full touring and the case highlights how NPH can be treatable yet require lengthy rehabilitation and lifestyle changes.