Overview
- Joel confirmed on his SiriusXM call-in this week that he had a shunt implanted in September to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus and that he is doing okay.
- He says the procedure has measurably improved his memory and balance but that he still experiences balance problems and some hearing loss.
- Joel’s medical team has advised physical therapy and warned that repeatedly playing loud rock shows could worsen brain nerve damage, leaving regular touring uncertain.
- The diagnosis first became public in May 2025 and led to concert cancellations; Joel briefly performed two songs with a tribute band in January but has not resumed a full schedule.
- Normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid presses on the brain and is often treated with a shunt followed by rehabilitation, which will shape Joel’s recovery and career choices going forward.