The term “Western sports” refers to events like roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding — some of the most dangerous forms of competition. Applying his expertise in neurology and sports medicine to care for these athletes over the last several years, Dr. Anthony Alessi has developed a unique perspective on this world. Professional bull riders have been flying in from other parts of the Americas to see him at UConn Health since 2018, when the first two arrived, concerned they’d leave with doctor’s orders to stop competing. In this solo episode, he shares his insight on the dynamic of the Western sports culture, why many of them lie to him, and what became of those first two bull riders who came in for neurological evaluations.

Self-employed athletes clearly lie to me all the time because they’re in a situation where it’s no play, no pay.
— Dr. Anthony Alessi

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